Piyush Pandey, the legendary figure in Indian advertising, passed away on Thursday after a severe infection. Though not a household name himself, Pandey’s creative genius left an indelible mark on the Indian advertising landscape. His campaigns, spanning over two decades, have become cultural touchstones, resonating deeply with audiences across generations. From iconic jingles to powerful political slogans, Pandey’s work transcended mere marketing, embedding itself into the fabric of Indian society. Here’s a look at six of his most unforgettable campaigns that reshaped Indian advertising: 1. **’Do boond zindagi ke’ — Polio Campaign**: This early ’90s initiative, featuring Bollywood stars like Amitabh Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai, played a pivotal role in promoting polio vaccination nationwide. 2. **’Fevicol ka jod’ — Fevicol**: Known for its humorous and memorable ads, this campaign turned Fevicol into a household name, with one ad showcasing a sofa passed down through generations. 3. **’Vicks ki goli lo, khich khich door karo’ — Vicks**: This enduring campaign for Vicks cough drops remains a staple in Indian advertising, thanks to Pandey’s creative vision. 4. **’Har ghar kuch kehta hai’ — Asian Paints**: This campaign celebrated the stories behind every home, making Asian Paints synonymous with emotional connections. 5. **’Wherever you go, our network follows’ — Hutch/Vodafone**: Featuring a loyal pug following a boy, this ad symbolized the reliability of the network in a heartwarming way. 6. **’Ab ki baar, Modi sarkaar’ — BJP Election Campaign**: This slogan, which became a rallying cry during the 2014 elections, even caught the attention of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Pandey’s legacy is a testament to the power of storytelling in advertising, proving that creativity can leave a lasting impact far beyond its commercial intent.
分类： entertainment
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Why Bill Gates did a cameo in an iconic Indian TV drama
In an unexpected twist, Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates made a cameo appearance on the iconic Indian soap opera *Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi* (Because the Mother-in-Law Was Also Once Daughter-in-Law). The episode, which aired on Thursday night, featured Gates discussing maternal and child health with actress and former federal minister Smriti Irani, who plays the lead character Tulsi. The Gates Foundation has long been involved in initiatives to reduce infant and maternal mortality in India, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where healthcare challenges persist. Gates’ appearance on the show aimed to amplify awareness about these critical issues through a platform that resonates deeply with Indian audiences. The four-minute segment saw Gates greeting Tulsi in Hindi, discussing the importance of maternal health, and emphasizing the need for proper nutrition and medical care during pregnancy. The show’s producers, JioStar Entertainment, highlighted their commitment to using storytelling to address socially relevant topics, stating that the integration of such themes can inspire real-world change. Gates is set to appear in three episodes of the series, which recently returned for its second season after a 25-year hiatus. While the show has faced stiff competition from modern OTT platforms, Gates’ cameo has reignited public interest, with a promotional clip garnering over six million views on Instagram in less than a day. The unexpected crossover has sparked a mix of surprise and amusement among viewers, with many praising the innovative approach to raising awareness about maternal and child health.
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Britney Spears said she was used. Kevin Federline says she needs help
The tumultuous relationship between Britney Spears and Kevin Federline has resurfaced in the public eye as both release memoirs offering starkly contrasting accounts of their shared history. Spears, in her 2023 memoir *The Woman in Me*, recounts the emotional and financial control she endured during her 13-year conservatorship, while Federline’s newly released *You Thought You Knew* provides his perspective on their chaotic marriage and her mental health struggles.
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Restaurant Review: Culinara at One Za’abeel is Dubai’s newest food hall experience
Dubai’s latest culinary gem, Culinara, located at One Za’abeel, offers a dining experience that is as visually stunning as it is gastronomically satisfying. Perched high above the city, this food hall combines innovative architecture with a diverse array of cuisines, creating a social dining experience like no other. The venue’s floating bridge, known as The Link, connects the twin towers of One Za’abeel, setting the stage for a meal that feels both luxurious and adventurous. Upon arrival, guests are greeted by Giellan, the affable Outlet Manager, who provides a warm welcome and a guided tour of the multi-concept space. The expansive glass walls offer breathtaking views of Dubai’s evolving skyline, symbolizing the city’s rapid transformation over the past five decades. The Persian section, Seyran, proved particularly inviting, with its aromatic dishes and cozy ambiance. Ordering at Culinara involves navigating a digital system of QR codes and layered menus, which, while initially challenging, soon becomes an engaging part of the experience. The dishes, ranging from tender kebabs to saffron rice, are both flavorful and beautifully presented, showcasing authentic flavors without unnecessary embellishments. Dining at such a height adds an element of joy to the meal, complemented by the lively yet relaxed atmosphere and attentive service. While the tech-driven ordering system could benefit from greater intuitiveness and clearer signage, these minor inconveniences are easily overlooked when savoring the culinary delights and taking in the panoramic views. Culinara is more than just a restaurant; it’s a spectacle that blends architecture, altitude, and gastronomy, making it an ideal destination for impressing visitors, enjoying a romantic evening, or simply reveling in Dubai’s penchant for grandeur. Highlights include the deconstructed lamb souvlaki, which stands out as a hero dish, and the overall vibe, which strikes a perfect balance between energy and tranquility. With an overall score of 8/10, Culinara cements its place as a must-visit culinary destination in Dubai.
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Dubai Fitness Challenge: When activewear becomes a style statement
Dubai is redefining the intersection of fitness and fashion, as the city gears up for its annual Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC). This month-long event, running from November 1 to 30, is not just about physical activity but also about making a style statement. From Kite Beach’s scenic running tracks to Pilates studios popping up across the city, Dubai’s elite are trading their Hermès handbags for WHOOP fitness trackers and diamond-encrusted activewear. The city’s fitness culture has become a symbol of status, with influencers like Karen Wazen showcasing fitness wearables alongside Cartier bracelets. Fashion brands are also embracing this trend, with Victoria’s Secret recently featuring athletes like Angel Reese and Suni Lee in their shows. The DFC offers a plethora of Instagram-worthy moments, from the Dubai Run, which transforms Sheikh Zayed Road into a massive running track, to unique events like spinning classes on airport runways and triathlons at the AURA Skypool. This year, participants can flaunt their style with collaborations like Kim Kardashian’s NikeSKIMS collection or Valentino’s partnership with Vans. The event is a testament to Dubai’s ambition to become the world’s most active city, blending fitness, fashion, and luxury in a dazzling display of wellness culture.
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Indian advertising legend Piyush Pandey passes away
The advertising world mourns the loss of Piyush Pandey, a legendary figure in Indian advertising, who passed away at the age of 70. The news of his demise was announced by columnist Suhel Seth on social media platform X, on Friday morning. Pandey, celebrated for his groundbreaking work, was the creative force behind iconic campaigns for brands such as Asian Paints, Cadbury’s, and Fevicol, which have left an indelible mark on Indian advertising.
Pandey began his career in 1982 with Ogilvy & Mather India (now Ogilvy India), starting as a trainee account executive before transitioning to the creative side. His innovative approach and storytelling prowess revolutionized the industry, earning him global recognition. In 2004, he became the first Asian to serve as jury president at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. His contributions were further honored with the CLIO Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012 and the Padma Shri, making him the first advertising professional in India to receive the prestigious national award.
Tributes poured in from across the industry and beyond. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta described Pandey as ‘the glue of the ad world,’ while Union Minister Piyush Goyal expressed profound grief, calling him a ‘phenomenon’ whose creativity redefined storytelling. Pandey’s legacy includes timeless campaigns like Asian Paints’ ‘Har khushi mein rang laaye,’ Cadbury’s ‘Kuch Khaas Hai,’ and Fevicol’s iconic ‘Egg’ film, which continue to resonate with audiences.
Pandey’s passing leaves a void in the advertising world, but his innovative spirit and contributions will continue to inspire future generations. His work not only shaped brands but also captured the essence of Indian culture, making him a true patriot and a creative genius.
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Picasso portrait of muse Dora Maar in vivid hat, long hidden from view, sells for 27 million euros
A vibrant and long-hidden portrait by Pablo Picasso, titled ‘Bust of a Woman with a Flowered Hat (Dora Maar)’, was auctioned in Paris for a staggering €27 million ($31.3 million) on Friday. Painted in July 1943, the artwork captures Dora Maar, Picasso’s muse and partner for nearly seven years, during a tumultuous period in their relationship. The painting, part of Picasso’s ‘Woman in a Hat’ series, had been privately held since its purchase in 1944 and had never before been publicly displayed. The auction took place at the prestigious Drouot auction house, which hailed the event as a moment of rare significance, unveiling the full brilliance of a masterpiece kept secret for over eight decades. Picasso specialist Agnes Sevestre-Barbé praised the portrait’s vividness, noting its raw, unvarnished state preserved the artist’s original chromatic range and expressive genius. Previously, the work was only known through a black-and-white photograph, leaving its vibrant colors a mystery. Auctioneer Christophe Lucien highlighted the global interest in the piece, with art markets from the United States to Asia and Europe eagerly anticipating its sale.
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Hit TV series and song go viral across the Strait
The highly acclaimed TV series ‘Silent Honor,’ which dramatizes the real-life exploits of Communist Party of China undercover agents in Taiwan, has captured the hearts of audiences on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Alongside this, a viral song adapted from the remarks of a political figure from Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party has further fueled patriotic fervor. The series and song have not only entertained but also sparked discussions about national identity and unity. This cultural phenomenon underscores the deep-rooted connections and shared heritage between the people of mainland China and Taiwan, fostering a sense of collective pride and solidarity.
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‘Our reality, our values’: Graffiti finds growing acceptance in West Africa
In the bustling streets of Conakry, Guinea, graffiti artist Omar Diaw, known by his alias “Chimere,” is redefining urban art. Once dismissed as vandalism, graffiti has now become a powerful medium for public awareness and cultural expression in the city. Diaw, who moved to Guinea from Senegal in 2018, found a blank canvas in Conakry, where street art was virtually nonexistent. Over the years, his vibrant murals have transformed the city’s concrete-heavy landscape, featuring larger-than-life portraits of Guinean musicians, African independence leaders, and even the country’s military ruler, General Mamadi Doumbouya. Diaw’s approach has been strategic and inclusive. By aligning his art with public campaigns, such as raising awareness about COVID-19, he has won over both the public and authorities. His graffiti collective, Guinea Ghetto Graff, has left its mark across the city, turning walls into storytelling canvases. The art form, which originated in the U.S. and arrived in West Africa via Senegal in the late 1980s, has evolved to reflect African realities and values. Today, graffiti in Guinea and Senegal is not just art but also a tool for political messaging and social commentary. Diaw’s work has garnered widespread admiration, with locals praising its ability to preserve history and reshape urban spaces. As the movement grows, there is a push for greater inclusivity, with calls for more women to join the graffiti scene and contribute to this transformative art form.
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Montenegro: Europe’s new luxury hotspot for spectacular views and culture
Montenegro, often referred to as the ‘little-known Monte Carlo of the Adriatic,’ has swiftly risen to prominence as a luxurious retreat for the global elite. This hidden gem, once a well-kept secret among the rich and famous, is now gaining widespread recognition for its breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and exclusive amenities. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, recently showcased the country’s allure with an Instagram post from the Bay of Kotor, where he stayed at the ultra-luxurious One & Only Portonovi resort. This sprawling 60-acre waterfront property features private beaches and a marina, epitomizing the opulence that Montenegro offers. The coastal town of Budva, with its historic charm and natural beauty, has long attracted celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, and Madonna, who even owns a home there. Flydubai has capitalized on Montenegro’s growing appeal, reporting a 10% annual increase in passenger numbers since launching direct flights to Tivat in 2017. Luxury brands are also flocking to the region, with SIRO Boka Place making waves as a premier wellness resort. The Kerzner Group, behind the One&Only brand, has further cemented Montenegro’s status as a luxury hotspot. Sunset Hospitality Group has also entered the market, opening the Aura Beach Club in Porto Montenegro and planning additional venues. Montenegro’s unique blend of pristine coastline, historic towns, and outdoor adventures, coupled with improved connectivity and government support for premium tourism, has positioned it as a top destination for sophisticated travelers seeking exclusivity and cultural depth.