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Shah Rukh Khan mourns ad legend Piyush Pandey’s death, calling him a “creative genius” who revolutionised Indian advertising. Read SRK’s emotional tribute.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan paid an emotional tribute to advertising legend Piyush Pandey, who passed away at 70.
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has joined the chorus of tributes pouring in for advertising legend Piyush Pandey, who passed away on October 24 at the age of 70. Known for redefining the landscape of Indian advertising, Pandey was a pioneer whose creative brilliance shaped countless iconic campaigns and inspired generations of storytellers.
On Friday evening, Shah Rukh took to social media to remember his dear friend and collaborator. Posting a monochrome photograph of Piyush Pandey, the actor wrote a heartfelt note that perfectly captured the spirit of the man behind India’s most memorable ad campaigns, “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,” Shah Rukh wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
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. pic.twitter.com/rxJJOrk5Xp— Shah Rukh Khan (@iamsrk) October 24, 2025
The actor’s message reflects the profound impact Piyush Pandey had not only on the advertising world but also on the larger creative ecosystem of India. Shah Rukh, who has himself been the face of numerous brand campaigns over the decades, collaborated with Pandey on multiple occasions and shared mutual admiration for each other’s artistry.
A Visionary Who Redefined Indian Advertising
Piyush Pandey, a Padma Shri recipient, served as the Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer Worldwide at Ogilvy, one of the most influential advertising agencies in the world. Often credited as the man who gave Indian advertising its true Indian voice, Pandey believed in telling stories that spoke the language of the masses—deeply rooted in culture, humour, and emotion.
He was the creative mind behind some of India’s most loved and enduring ad campaigns, including Fevicol’s “Fevicol Ka Jod”, Cadbury Dairy Milk’s “Asli Swad Zindagi Ka”, and the heartwarming “Mile Sur Mera Tumhara” campaign. His work didn’t just sell products; it built memories, identities, and a sense of shared nostalgia for millions.
Beyond his creative genius, Piyush Pandey was admired for his humility, wit, and ability to mentor young talent. His colleagues at Ogilvy described him as “a man who carried his genius lightly,” someone who valued authenticity over artifice and connection over commerce.
An Outpouring of Tributes
Following his demise, several personalities from the entertainment and advertising industries have paid tribute to him. Music maestro Shankar Mahadevan, filmmaker Hansal Mehta, and musician Ehsaan Noorani expressed their grief online, calling him a “creative genius” and “a man who redefined Indian advertising.”
Actor Gajraj Rao also penned a heartfelt note, describing Pandey as “the Sam Manekshaw of Indian advertising,” lauding his ability to lead with courage and creative conviction.
An Irreplaceable Loss
According to a statement released by Ogilvy, Piyush Pandey had been battling an infection that took a serious turn. He passed away peacefully 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 the Indian creative community, Pandey’s passing marks the end of an era — one defined by heart, humour, and a profound belief in the power of storytelling. As Shah Rukh Khan wrote, Piyush Pandey’s legacy lies not only in his work but in the effortless grace with which he carried his brilliance — leaving behind inspiration that will outlive generations.
Yatamanyu Narain is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for all things entertainment. Whether he’s breaking the latest Bollywood news or chatting with rising stars in the OTT world, he’s always on the hun…Read More
Yatamanyu Narain is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for all things entertainment. Whether he’s breaking the latest Bollywood news or chatting with rising stars in the OTT world, he’s always on the hun… Read More
October 24, 2025, 19:00 IST
