Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek arrive for the last rites of Piyush Pandey; his sweet gesture wins the Internet

Mumbai witnessed an emotional afternoon on Saturday as megastar Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek Bachchan arrived to pay their final respects to legendary adman Piyush Pandey, who passed away on Friday at the age of 70. The father-son duo was seen at Pandey’s residence, dressed in traditional white attire, reflecting the gravity of the moment. Viral videos from the venue captured Amitabh quietly greeting those gathered, including Ishitta Arun, daughter of Ila Arun and niece of the late icon, before leaving the premises with folded hands. Abhishek, too, maintained a solemn expression as he joined his father for the final rites.

Other personalities from the film and advertising world, including Manoj Pahwa, Ashoke Pandit, and several colleagues from the industry, were also seen offering their condolences. Piyush’s sister, Ila Arun, stood at the gate, greeting guests with folded hands, visibly heartbroken yet dignified in her grief.

Amitabh Bachchan’s Heartfelt Tribute

Amitabh, who had a long association with Piyush Pandey, expressed deep sorrow on his blog after hearing the news. The two had worked together on several iconic campaigns, including the government’s polio eradication drive and the “Khushboo Gujarat Ki” tourism series. Calling Piyush a “creative genius” and “guide,” the actor wrote that words could not express the grief of losing someone who left behind such an immeasurable legacy.

Remembering the Creative Genius

Piyush Pandey’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian advertising. Known for his sharp creative instincts and storytelling genius, he shaped some of the most memorable campaigns that defined pop culture, from Fevicol’s classic “Egg” film to Cadbury Dairy Milk’s “Kuch Khaas Hai” and Asian Paints’ “Har Khushi Mein Rang Laaye.” His knack for turning simple ideas into emotional connections made him one of the most respected figures in the field.

Over the years, his contribution was honoured with prestigious accolades, including the Padma Shri and the CLIO Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012, making him the first Indian ad professional to receive the distinction.

As Bollywood and the ad world bid him farewell, one thing remains certain, Piyush Pandey’s creativity will continue to live on, echoing in every ad that dares to make us feel.