‘Rest in peace my friend’: Shah Rukh Khan pays tribute to advertising legend Piyush Pandey

Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan joined countless others in mourning the death of advertising icon Piyush Pandey, who passed away on October 24 at 70. Widely regarded as a pioneer of Indian advertising, Pandey reshaped the industry with campaigns that resonated with audiences across generations.

On Friday evening, Shah Rukh shared a monochrome photograph of Pandey on social media, writing, “Working and being around Piyush Pandey always felt effortless and fun. Was an honour being part of the pure magic he created. He carried his genius so lightly and revolutionised the ad industry in India. Rest in Peace my friend. Will miss you lots.” The actor’s tribute reflected not only his personal loss but also the broader impact Pandey had on India’s creative landscape.

A Visionary Who Redefined Advertising

Padma Shri awardee Piyush Pandey served as Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer Worldwide at Ogilvy. Known for giving Indian advertising a distinct cultural voice, he championed stories that were rooted in emotion, humour, and everyday life.

Pandey created campaigns that became part of India’s collective memory, including Fevicol’s “Fevicol Ka Jod,” Cadbury Dairy Milk’s “Asli Swad Zindagi Ka,” and the iconic “Mile Sur Mera Tumhara” initiative. His work went beyond selling products, fostering nostalgia, identity, and connection among millions.

Colleagues admired him for his humility and mentorship. At Ogilvy, he was described as “a man who carried his genius lightly,” prioritising authenticity and human connection over mere commercial success.

Following his death, several prominent figures paid homage. Musician Shankar Mahadevan, filmmaker Hansal Mehta, and musician Ehsaan Noorani remembered him as a “creative genius” and someone who redefined Indian advertising. Actor Gajraj Rao likened him to “the Sam Manekshaw of Indian advertising,” highlighting his leadership and creative conviction.

Ogilvy confirmed that Pandey had been battling an infection that worsened, leading to his peaceful passing on Friday morning. The agency wrote, “It is with an unfathomable sense of loss that we share the passing of our beloved Piyush Pandey. His creativity, leadership, and laughter will be missed deeply by every one of us.”

For India’s creative community, Pandey’s death marks the end of an era. As Shah Rukh Khan wrote, his legacy is defined not just by his work but by the effortless way he carried his brilliance, leaving inspiration that will influence generations to come.