Mumbai, Oct 24 (NationPress) Veteran actor Gajraj Rao delivered a poignant homage to the advertising icon Piyush Pandey.

In a recent post on Instagram, he referred to Pandey as the “Sam Manekshaw of Indian Advertising.” Rao commended Pandey’s unparalleled grasp of Indian culture, his knack for engaging with both fresh faces and seasoned professionals in the industry, as well as his irreplaceable talent and bravery. Alongside a monochrome portrait of the late advertising maestro, the ‘Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan’ actor expressed, “Piyush Pandey sir, in my view, was the commander of the Indian advertising landscape, standing resolutely at the forefront of every creative challenge with his pen. He navigated every hurdle with ease. His understanding of Indian society was remarkable, particularly in grasping the nuances of Rural India.”

“Whether dealing with a budding writer or a seasoned client, Pandey Saab effortlessly forged connections with a touch of betkalluffy. He was the Sam Manekshaw, the General of Indian Advertising, endowed with unique talent and courage—irreplaceable. Salute!!! #piyushpandey #rip,” he concluded.

Many in the industry have voiced their sorrow over Piyush Pandey’s demise, including filmmaker Hansal Mehta and musician Ehsaan Noorani, who regarded him as a visionary who transformed Indian advertising. Hansal remarked on his X account: “Fevicol ka jod toot gaya. The ad world has lost its glue today. Farewell, Piyush Pandey.”

In his tribute, Noorani stated, “Rest in Peace, Piyush Pandey, the architect of creativity in advertising and the creator of unforgettable campaigns.”

Piyush Pandey, a recipient of the Padma Shri award and a monumental figure in Indian advertising, passed away on Friday at the age of 70. The advertising luminary, who held the position of Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer Worldwide at Ogilvy, had been contending with an infection that recently worsened, as confirmed by the agency.

The agency released a statement saying, “To our entire Ogilvy family, it is with deep sorrow that I share the news of our dear Piyush Pandey's passing. He was fighting an infection that took a dire turn. He left us peacefully this morning. I can’t fathom how each of us will cope with this enormous loss.”