The demise of ad legend Piyush Pandey left the country mourning. Best known for his invaluable contributions to the world of advertising, Piyush was often called the God of Advertising. His death was mourned by several celebrities, including PM Narendra Modi and Bollywood stars. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan also paid a heartfelt tribute to advertising revolutionary, who passed away on October 24.
Shah Rukh Khan pays tribute to Piyush Pandey
Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) account, Shah Rukh Khan wrote, “Working and being around Piyush Pandey always felt effortless and fun. It 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”
Amitabh Bachchan also remembered Piyush as he wrote on X, “A creative genius .. a most amiable friend, and guide .. has left us .. No words to express our grief .. Piyush Pandey , passed away this morning .. The creative works left behind by him shall ever be an eternal emblem of his immeasurable creativity .. स्तब्ध ! निशब्द !! प्रथनायें (sic).”
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
Earlier in the day, Bollywood actor Gajraj Rao also offered condolences. He remembered Piyush Pandey as the “Sam Manekshaw of Indian Advertising”, while praising his unmatched understanding of Indian society, his ability to connect with both newcomers and veterans in the industry, and his irreplaceable talent and courage, shared a monochrome image of the late legendary advertising guru.
He wrote, “Piyush Pandey, sir, in my eyes, was the general of the Indian advertising world, who used to stand in the front row with his pen on every small and big creative front. Every obstacle had a break. Their grip on Indian society was amazing, especially since he was the advertising guru who understood rural India better.”
He further added, “Whether it is a novice writer or a veteran client, Pandey Saab used to make a relationship with a bit of betkalluffy. He was Sam Manekshaw, General of Indian Advertising, rich with unique talent and courage, no one can replace him, Salute!!! #piyushpandey #rip.” Several notable personalities from the Indian film industry paid tribute to the late Piyush Pandey.
Piyush Pandey death
For the uninitiated, Piyush Pandey, who was a Padma Shri awardee and an advertising stalwart, passed away on Friday at the age of 70. The advertising legend had served as Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer Worldwide at Ogilvy and had been fighting an infection that had recently worsened, the agency confirmed.
In a statement, the agency said, “To our entire Ogilvy family, it is with an unfathomable sense of loss that I write to you about the passing away of our beloved Piyush Pandey. Piyush was battling an infection that took a serious turn. He passed away peacefully this morning. I cannot even imagine how each one of us is going to process this terrible loss in our own way.”
(With inputs from IANS)
