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Remembering Piyush Pandey - The Man Behind 'Humara Bajaj' (2025)

Piyush Pandey, the legendary adman behind iconic campaigns like 'Humara Bajaj', Fevicol, and Cadbury, passed away at 70. This tribute explores his timeless impact on India’s advertising and storytelling legacy.

Pratik Kamble

25 Oct 2025 — 2 min read

Remembering Piyush Pandey - The Man Behind 'Humara Bajaj'

Piyush Pandey

A Tribute to the Man Who Gave India Its Advertising Voice

1. Who was Piyush Pandey?

Piyush Pandey was a towering figure in Indian advertising-creative director, storyteller, strategist. By the time of his passing, he held the titles of Executive Chairman (India) and former Worldwide Chief Creative Officer at Ogilvy India. His career spanned over four decades and he revolutionised how brands communicated with Indian audiences.

2. What did he achieve?

He crafted legendary campaigns like Fevicol (“Yeh Fevicol ka jod hai, tutega nahin”), Cadbury’s “Kuch Khaas Hai”, Vodafone’s pug ad, and Bajaj’s “Humara Bajaj”.
He earned high honours, including the civilian award Padma Shri in 2016.
He helped Indian advertising speak in a more Indian voice, often relatable, grounded, full of emotion.

3. When & how did he leave us?

Piyush Pandey passed away on 24 October 2025 at the age of 70. His family confirmed that he had been suffering from a serious infection and complications of pneumonia.

4. Where did his impact lie?

His work spanned across India but resonated especially in everyday homes, from small towns to big cities. He built campaigns that connected with the “common man”, while also influencing the global advertising industry.

5. Why did he matter?

Because he didn’t only sell products, he told stories. Products became part of culture, slogans became part of memory. His work helped brands become familiar names, and his creative vision shaped an entire industry’s evolution.

6. How did he influence the advertising world?

He changed the narrative: advertising wasn’t just slick and English-heavy; it became more Indian, from tone to emotion.
He mentored generations of creatives and redefined the role of storytelling in brand building.
He brought homegrown creative thinking to the global stage, winning international awards.

Key Milestones & Legacy

Over 40 years with Ogilvy, rising from junior client service to Worldwide Chief Creative Officer.
Crafted ads that became cultural touchstones, the kind you remember decades later.
Acknowledged as one of the most influential figures in Indian advertising.
Passed away on October 24, 2025, leaving the industry and many admirers in mourning.

What This Means for You

Whether you’re a brand manager, a creative mind, or simply someone who watches a lot of ads, Piyush Pandey’s work matters. His campaigns remind us that authenticity, simplicity, and emotion still win. Even in a digital, high-tech world, that truth holds.

Rest in peace, Piyush Pandey. Your ads may fade from screens, but they will live on in memory.