Piyush Pandey Death: Tributes Pour In for India’s Ad Legend
The news of Piyush Pandey’s death has sent shockwaves across India’s advertising and film industries. The 70-year-old Padma Shri awardee, known as the creative genius behind some of India’s most iconic ad campaigns, passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025.
From Fevicol’s timeless wit to Cadbury’s emotional storytelling, Pandey’s work touched millions of lives. His death marks the end of an era in Indian advertising, but his legacy continues to inspire creativity, authenticity, and emotional connection.
Bollywood and Creative Icons Remember Piyush Pandey
Anupam Kher’s Heartfelt Goodbye
Veteran actor Anupam Kher penned an emotional note following Piyush Pandey’s death, recalling his charm and larger-than-life presence.
He wrote:
“I have spent many years of my life watching Piyush Pandey ji’s ad slogans become part of our lives. Such a spirited person never leaves us. Om Shanti, my friend.”
Kher also shared how Pandey’s slogans—like “Fevicol ka Jod” and “Kuch Khaas Hai Zindagi Mein”—became cultural expressions that defined generations.
Prasoon Joshi and Hansal Mehta on the Creative Void
Poet and lyricist Prasoon Joshi, still in disbelief, shared,
“Hard to believe Piyush’s laughter is now only a memory. He made work feel like life itself.”
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta summarized the loss in one line that resonated across the industry:
“Fevicol ka jod toot gaya. The ad world lost its glue today.”
Their tributes capture the irreplaceable gap Piyush Pandey’s death leaves behind in India’s creative community.
Vivek Agnihotri Recalls the Man Who Sold Emotions
Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri, who worked with Pandey at Ogilvy & Mather, described him as the man who “sold emotions, not brands.”
He wrote:
“When I joined O&M, everyone wanted India to sound like London. But there was Piyush Pandey, with his Rajasthani moustache, writing in Hindi and making words smell of mitti. He made us feel proud of our roots.”
Agnihotri’s tribute captures Pandey’s defining strength — his ability to tell stories that spoke in India’s own language.
Ranvir Shorey and Industry Colleagues React
Actor Ranvir Shorey also expressed his sadness over Piyush Pandey’s death, remembering him as a mentor full of positivity.
“The man was a bonafide genius. Always helping youngsters do better. You will be remembered and missed, Sir.”
The outpouring of grief from across industries — Bollywood, advertising, and business — reflects how Pandey’s creative brilliance went beyond commercials and touched real lives.
Piyush Pandey’s Legacy: The Man Who Made Ads Emotional
Piyush Pandey redefined Indian advertising by blending emotion, simplicity, and authenticity. His iconic campaigns include:
- Fevicol – “Fevicol ka Jod” ads that made humor meet emotion.
- Cadbury Dairy Milk – “Kuch Khaas Hai Zindagi Mein”, a campaign that celebrated joy.
- Asian Paints – heartfelt storytelling about homes and memories.
- Pulse Polio – social ads that changed public behavior and inspired awareness.
Pandey believed advertising wasn’t about selling products but connecting hearts. His work turned ordinary ads into memorable stories that became part of India’s cultural DNA.
A Final Goodbye to a Creative Genius
As tributes pour in, the creative world stands united in grief over Piyush Pandey’s death.
He wasn’t just an adman — he was a storyteller, mentor, and cultural icon. His ability to turn words into emotions made him one of the most respected figures in Indian advertising history.
“He sold emotions,” said one colleague — and perhaps that’s the most fitting way to remember him.
Rest in peace, Piyush Pandey — your words, laughter, and creativity will forever echo in every ad that feels like India.
Om Shanti.
