PATTAYA, THAILAND — On the final day of ADFEST 2024, March 23, the prestigious Lotus Legend Hall of Fame welcomed Piyush Pandey, Chief Advisor at Ogilvy India, as its newest inductee. Despite being in India, Piyush graciously accepted this esteemed commendation through a heartfelt video message, leaving a lasting impression on attendees and industry professionals alike.
Introduced in 2012, the Lotus Legend Award recognizes individuals who have significantly impacted, contributed to, and left an indelible legacy of creative excellence in the advertising industry. This year, Piyush stood out among nominees, securing the admiration and respect of the 63 ADFEST 2024 juries, who unanimously voted in his favor.
With a career spanning over four decades, Piyush’s journey at Ogilvy India began in 1982, where he quickly rose to prominence. As Executive Chairman of Ogilvy India since 2004, his visionary leadership has propelled the agency to unparalleled heights, solidifying its reputation as one of the most creative agencies within the Ogilvy network.
Numerous accolades and groundbreaking achievements punctuate Piyush’s illustrious career. Notably, he served as Ogilvy’s Global Chief Creative Officer for two and a half years and became the first Asian to chair the Cannes jury in 2004. His exceptional contributions to the industry were further recognized with prestigious awards such as the Indian National Civilian Award (Padma Shri) in 2016 and the Lion of St Mark at the International Festival of Creativity at Cannes in 2018.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Piyush is revered for his commitment to driving social change through advertising. His impactful campaigns, including efforts to eradicate polio in India through collaborations with UNICEF and the Government, underscore his belief in using creativity as a force for good.
In his acceptance speech, Piyush expressed profound gratitude for being honored with the Lotus Legend Award. Reflecting on his journey, he remarked how life has come full circle. Recalling his youth in the 80’s, he fondly remembered admiring Thai advertising for its cultural authenticity, contrasting it with standardized practices. Piyush shared his aspiration for Indian advertising to similarly embrace and reflect its rich cultural heritage.
He humbly acknowledged the impact of his work over the years, sharing, “You don’t wear your country on your sleeve; you wear your country in your heart.”
Piyush concluded his speech with an uplifting message to the young audience. He said, “All I have to say to the young people here is believe in yourself and your country and that the world will salute you one day.”
adobo Magazine is an official media partner of ADFEST 2024.
