Tag: Ogilvy India

  • Vidya Balan brings swagger to savings in Federal Bank’s latest push

    Vidya Balan brings swagger to savings in Federal Bank’s latest push

    MUMBAI: In a world where banks shout about interest rates and product features, Federal Bank is whispering something far more stylish: save, but make it smart.

    Enter Vidya Balan—actor, brand ambassador, and now, savings guru. In the newly launched ‘Savings Ki Vidya’ campaign, she serves up daily financial wisdom with a side of sass, showing that even small savings can be swanky.

    The witty, slice-of-life films ditch jargon for charm, tapping into those blink-and-you-miss-it moments where we splurge instead of stashing. Backed by the bank’s emotional tagline “Rishta aap se hai, sirf app se nahi”, the campaign doesn’t push a product—it sells a mindset.

    No rate wars here. Just a sharp reminder that being money-wise doesn’t mean being boring.

    Designed as a 360-degree campaign, it spans TV, digital, print, OOH and even on-ground branch activations, with versions in multiple languages. A peppy original soundtrack—think more street than spreadsheet—keeps the vibe playful yet pointed.

    Speaking on the campaign, Federal Bank CMO M V S Murthy said, “‘Savings Ki Vidya’ moves the spotlight to conscious financial choices and long-term relationships. It’s a move away from transactional conversations and toward owning the act of saving itself. Opening a savings account with Federal Bank isn’t just a product decision—it’s an enabler. This campaign gives us a flexible, long-term platform to amplify various facets of our savings narrative. You can’t miss Vidya for a moment in this warm, witty, and winning narrative. The campaign reflects Federal Bank’s essence, ‘Rishta Aap Se Hai Sirf App Se Nahi,’ and draws on the strength of the Bank’s team and our ability to deliver service excellence—this is the calling card to opening accounts with the Bank.”

    Balan, who also happens to be a Federal Bank customer, shared, “Federal Bank is maxing the potential of working with me as their ambassador. The witty word play around my name is almost serendipitous given that knowledge helps us make smart choices that lead to prosperity and it’s the everyday moments that make this campaign relatable. A simple storyline which reinforces that those who care about us look out for us. I’ve experienced the Federal Bank ethos of Human at the Core and Digital to the Fore firsthand when I opened an account with them which showed me that they mean it when they say, ‘Rishta Aap Se Hai, Sirf App Se Nahi.’”

    Ogilvy senior creative director Rohit Dubey added, “Savings are the soul of banking. With these films, we wanted to bring that habit alive—not with lectures, but through life’s little moments. Whether it’s planning a party or dodging impulse buys, we believe Vidya’s everyday wisdom can help the country rediscover the joy of saving. And what better partner to do it with than a bank that’s built on relationships. Federal Bank.”

    As banks battle it out for deposits in a cluttered digital bazaar, Federal Bank is cutting through with charm, not charts. With Balan as the face of financial sensibility, saving just got a makeover.

    Move over fintech flash. This is old-school sensibility, dressed in modern swag.

    Savings ki Vidya koi tujhse seekhe:

    Savings ki Vidya: Efforts aur Paise dono bachao:

     
     

  • Coke Zero goes full ‘method’ with invisible cans and calorie-free genius

    Coke Zero goes full ‘method’ with invisible cans and calorie-free genius

    MUMBAI: Coke Zero just pulled off the ultimate disappearing act. On 3 April, Coca-Cola India launched a campaign that literally showed nothing—and yet, everything. Titled ‘Coke Zero Auditions’, the campaign serves up a visual metaphor as crisp as the drink itself: a zero-calorie beverage promoted with zero product.

    Conceived by Ogilvy India under the WPP Open X banner, the campaign takes cues from acting school 101—where aspiring stars mime sipping an imaginary drink during method auditions. But in a meta twist, these mock auditions were the actual ads.

    Actors pretend to sip from invisible cans in a series of raw, unfiltered clips, and the result? A surprisingly effective pitch for Coke Zero’s ‘no calorie, all taste’ promise.

    “Across geographies and generations, Coca-Cola is known for its taste and iconicity and Coke Zero for all the delicious Coke taste with no calories. This campaign leans into the simplicity of a very clever idea to bring the delicious taste of a Coke Zero to life without the usual taglines, direct messaging… without even showing the product!” said Coca-Cola India and southwest Asia VP – marketing, Greishma Singh.

    With no catchy jingle, zero product placement and absolutely no script, the campaign might just be the boldest mic drop in soft drink advertising this year. It’s minimalism with a fizzy punch.

    Ogilvy India CCO Sukesh Nayak added, “We realised that the biggest inspiration lies within the name ‘Coke Zero’. In the spirit of ‘zero’, we designed a campaign that simply and effectively shows the Zero impact that it carries, by not showing the product at all.”

    And the cherry on top? You can sip the campaign—metaphorically—on Youtube and Instagram:

     

     

    In a world where brands yell to be seen, Coke Zero has whispered—and made everyone look.

  • Ogilvy elevates Sujoy Roy & Nitin Srivastava as Gurugram CCOs

    Ogilvy elevates Sujoy Roy & Nitin Srivastava as Gurugram CCOs

    MUMBAI: Ogilvy has turned up the creative heat in Gurugram with the appointment of Sujoy Roy and Nitin Srivastava as its new chief creative officers. The duo—both longtime Ogilvy stalwarts—has a track record of crafting bold, award-winning campaigns that not only rake in metal but also leave an imprint on culture.

    Kainaz Karmakar, Harshad Rajadhyaksha, and Sukesh Nayak, chief creative officers of Ogilvy India, cheered on the promotion, “Sujoy and Nitin are Ogilvy stalwarts. Over the years both have created a stellar body of brave work that has helped grow business and reputation for their partners. Their benchmark-setting work across mediums has created impact and earned numerous recognitions locally and globally. But more importantly, it has also earned the love and admiration of our consumers and clients. We are thrilled to see our people step up and take on senior leadership roles. We believe the two of them, along with their partners, will push the boundaries of work. Their individual love for design and ideas will come together to write a new chapter for Ogilvy Gurugram.”

    Roy is as Ogilvy as it gets. Fresh out of college two decades ago, he walked into the agency wide-eyed and hungry—and never left. Over the years, he has hopped between Ogilvy’s Mumbai, Kolkata, and Colombo offices, leaving a creative footprint wherever he went.

    Despite his official title as ‘copywriter,’ Roy has never been boxed in. With a diploma in fine arts, he moves seamlessly between the worlds of art and copy, proving that great ideas don’t care about job descriptions. Seven years ago, he launched Ogilvy Design Cell, which he now leads across Ogilvy India, reinforcing his knack for blending design and storytelling.

    Roy’s work has left audiences and juries dazzled at Cannes, Clio, One Show, the London International Festival, Adfest Asia Pacific, and Young Guns. But he isn’t just here for the trophies—he’s here to make ads that stick. His roster of brands reads like a who’s who of business titans: Coca-Cola, Nestlé, Unilever, Marico, ITC, Asian Paints, Zandu, M P Birla, Pantaloons, and Eveready.

    Beyond national campaigns, Roy has been instrumental in shaping Ogilvy East, bringing Bengali-language advertising to new creative heights. His deep cultural insight has made his campaigns not just memorable but also wildly effective.

    Srivastava’s journey to the top is as colourful as his art. A painter-turned-designer-turned-art-director, Nitin has spent over 25 years proving that creativity has no boundaries. An alumnus of Delhi College of Art, with additional training at Central Saint Martins, London, he currently spearheads Ogilvy north’s luxury and beauty vertical.

    From Coca-Cola to Absolut, Chivas to MINI, and Incredible India to WWF, Srivastava has shaped some of the most iconic brand narratives. His work in the alcobev space for Pernod Ricard is legendary, helping shape brand identities that have stood the test of time.

    With over 100 awards—Cannes Lions, D&AD, One Show, Clio, London International, Adfest—Srivastava’s creative arsenal is stacked. His work has been featured in Communication Arts multiple times, and he has even made it to the publication’s list of the world’s most prominent art directors.

    When he’s not conjuring up bold brand campaigns, Srivastava balances his high-energy career with a laid-back personal life in Delhi, where he spends time with his dog, February—because of course, even his pet’s name has an artistic flair.

    With Roy and Srivastava at the creative helm, expect a whirlwind of bold ideas, groundbreaking design, and campaigns that push the envelope. Whether it’s a sharp one-liner, an immersive brand experience, or an out-of-the-box visual, Ogilvy Gurugram’s creative future looks bolder than ever.

  • Shah Rukh Khan powers Castrol’s 3X Protection campaign

    Shah Rukh Khan powers Castrol’s 3X Protection campaign

    MUMBAI: Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan returns to the screen in a high-octane new campaign for Castrol Activ’s 3X Protection, where he plays a tough cop navigating the searing heat of Rajasthan in pursuit of criminals. In the ad, SRK’s bike, powered by Castrol Activ, continues to perform flawlessly without overheating, while the criminals’ bike stalls during a dramatic chase.

    Khan stated, “The heat can be relentless, whether you’re chasing criminals or battling real-life traffic. Castrol Activ’s 3X protection ensures engines stay cool and the bike keeps moving. It’s been a pleasure collaborating with Castrol on this campaign.”

    Castrol India vice president & head of marketing, Rohit Talwar stated, “Overheating is a common issue for bikers, especially in India’s harsh summers. This campaign highlights Castrol Activ’s promise of superior engine protection, while connecting with riders facing the challenges of long, hot commutes.”

    The TVC, conceptualised by Ogilvy India, blends action-packed drama with the brand’s core message of engine protection. It will debut during the Champions Trophy final and will run across digital, print, and outdoor platforms in 10 languages.

    Ogilvy India chief creative officer, Sukesh Nayak stated, “With Shah Rukh Khan’s magnetic presence, we’ve created an ad that is as thrilling as an action film while communicating the product’s key benefit—superior engine protection.”

    The campaign also features social media activations and influencer partnerships. The new Castrol Activ is now available at retail outlets and online across India.
     

  • Adani Ports’ new film highlights its role in enabling business growth

    Adani Ports’ new film highlights its role in enabling business growth

    MUMBAI: The Adani Group has launched its latest film, Journey of Dreams, as part of its ongoing Hum Karke Dikhate Hain series, highlighting the transformative impact of Adani Ports on businesses and communities across India.

    The narrative-driven film celebrates India’s spirit of determination, illustrating how Adani Ports enables businesses-both large and small-to thrive through seamless connectivity and world-class infrastructure. As India’s largest integrated ports and logistics company, Adani Ports and SEZ Limited (APSEZ) plays a crucial role in economic growth by facilitating global trade and empowering entrepreneurs.

    The film opens with a touching scene where a young girl watches a ship sail into the horizon and asks her father, “Do ships carry big things, Papa?” To which he replies, “They carry big dreams too.” This sets the stage for an inspiring journey showcasing the global reach enabled by Adani Ports.

    The story follows a father’s aspirations as his handcrafted Namda toys—a traditional wool-felting craft from Gujarat’s Kutch region—find international markets thanks to the logistical support of Adani Ports. His journey reflects the countless small business owners across India who benefit from the company’s extensive infrastructure and global market access.

    Adani Group head of corporate branding, Ajay Kakar stated, “At Adani Ports, we do more than move goods—we create pathways for dreams. Our world-class facilities and connectivity help businesses flourish, improving millions of lives. This film beautifully showcases how our ports serve as catalysts for aspirations, turning dreams into reality.”

    The film, created by Ogilvy India, aligns with Adani’s vision of business with a human touch. Ogilvy India chief advisor, Piyush Pandey stated, “Big businesses and projects hold true significance when they positively impact communities. This campaign captures Adani Ports’ commitment to fostering growth at every level.”

    Part of the AdaniHKKDH series, Journey of Dreams will be broadcast across multiple platforms, reinforcing Adani Ports’ role in shaping India’s economic future.
     

  • Savour the art of slowing down with Cadbury Bournville

    Savour the art of slowing down with Cadbury Bournville

    MUMBAI: Can’t wait for a quiet evening, the hum of the world softening, and a square of indulgent dark chocolate melting slowly on your tongue?

    In a world addicted to speed, where every moment seems to blur into the next, Cadbury Bournville invites you to hit pause.

    With its new campaign, Don’t Rush It, Mondelez India’s premium dark chocolate brand is redefining indulgence—not just as a treat, but as a way of life. It’s an ode to slowing down, embracing the present, and savouring the intense richness of life, one luxurious bite at a time.

    After all, why race through life when the sweetest moments come when you simply pause?

    At the heart of the campaign lies a powerful message: life’s most meaningful indulgences aren’t meant to be rushed.

    Cadbury Bournville, crafted with perfectly roasted cocoa beans and designed with larger indulgent pip shapes, offers a rich taste that demands attention, time, and mindfulness. The campaign positions Bournville as more than just a treat—it becomes a ritual, an opportunity to immerse oneself in a luxurious moment of indulgence.

    Mondelez India VP marketing, Nitin Saini highlighted the campaign’s purpose, “With Cadbury Bournville, we believe that life’s most meaningful indulgences aren’t meant to be rushed. In a world where everything moves at a relentless pace, we want to inspire people to take a moment, be present, and truly savour the richness of their moments. Thus, with our new campaign, ‘Don’t Rush It,’ we’re encouraging consumers to experience a deeper connection with oneself—one pip at a time. After all, the most memorable moments are the ones that are unrushed.”

    The campaign film, a high-octane thriller with a humorous twist, dramatises Bournville’s intense taste, reinforcing the idea that it is best enjoyed bit by bit.

    Ogilvy India CCO, Sukesh Nayak added, “We wanted Bournville to make dark chocolate desirable in India, which is predominantly a milk chocolate market. This campaign maintains Bournville’s premium, international imagery while introducing a unique narrative that captures the richness of its flavour. The film perfectly blends sophistication with wit, creating a memorable appeal.”

    Watch the campaign film here:

  • Asian Paints launches ‘The Safe House’ campaign

    Asian Paints launches ‘The Safe House’ campaign

    Mumbai: The exteriors of our homes stand as the first line of defense against nature’s harsh elements like heavy rains, intense sunlight and persistent dust. Over time, these elements can affect the look and durability of homes, leaving homeowners searching for a solution that truly lasts. Asian Paints, trusted by homeowners across India, has taken its flagship exterior paint, Apex Ultima Protek—widely known as the Lamination Paint—to the next level by powering it with Graphene, a revolutionary material offering unmatched protection and durability. Offering a 12-year warranty, this re-engineered paint sets a new benchmark for exterior protection.

    Graphene is reshaping industries with its incredible strength, flexibility, and durability. Now, it powers Asian Paints Apex Ultima Protek, forming an ultra-strong barrier that shields homes from UV fading, cracks, and water damage. Graphene’s advanced elastomeric properties stand as the toughest and most reliable protection for Indian homes.

    To bring this innovation to life, Asian Paints has launched an all-new campaign, “The Safe House,” with brand ambassador Ranbir Kapoor. In the commercial, Ranbir Kapoor is seen stepping into the role of a spy for the first time, navigating thrilling escapes from dangerous adversaries.

    Conceptualized by Ogilvy India and directed by renowned filmmaker Shashanka Chaturvedi, the ad for Apex Ultima Protek unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of a Moroccan market as it takes viewers on a whirlwind adventure. Ranbir, as the dashing agent, along with his heroine, narrowly escapes enemies chasing them through winding streets. Just when it seems like there’s no escape and a missile locks onto its target, Ranbir has a brilliant idea—to retreat to their impenetrable “Safe House,” protected by Ultima Protek powered by Graphene.

    The enemy tries everything—missiles and relentless attacks—but the Safe House stands untouched and invincible. This cinematic masterpiece brilliantly captures Ultima Protek’s protection against every element, be it scorching sun, torrential rains, or persistent dust.

    By blending the intrigue of espionage with cutting-edge innovation, the campaign lands how Ultima Protek, powered by Graphene, delivers unparalleled performance. The safe house becomes a central metaphor, emphasizing the brand’s role in shielding homes from relentless external challenges, much like a spy’s impenetrable hideout that ensures safety under the harshest conditions.

    Speaking about the new Ultima Protek campaign, Asian Paints CEO & MD Amit Syngle commented, “At Asian Paints, innovation and technology are at the heart of everything we do. From Teflon in Royale to Lamination in Ultima Protek, and now Graphene—the wonder material—we’ve consistently set new benchmarks in the category. With Graphene-powered Ultima Protek, we’re delivering the toughest protection for Indian homes. By focusing on technology-driven solutions, we aim to simplify the decision-making process for our consumers, helping them choose the best for their homes.”

    Speaking about the commercial, Syngle added, “This Ultima Protek campaign mirrors a blockbuster action movie brought alive by the presence of our brand ambassador Ranbir Kapoor. Brimming with action and drama, Ultima Protek powered by Graphene, paired with Ranbir’s charisma, is set to captivate the nation.”

    Ogilvy India CCO Sukesh Nayak said, “This campaign is an exciting, gripping spy thriller that brings to life the incredible safety and strength of Ultima Protek with Graphene. The creative concept of ‘Safe House’ demonstrates how this house is more than just a shelter – it’s a fortress, a secure haven made impenetrable by the power of Graphene. The story is brought to life by Ranbir Kapoor stepping into the role of a super spy who uses the safe house protection in the most intense situations to complete his mission.”

  • NPCI unveils UPI safety awareness campaign – ‘Main Moorkh Nahi Hoon’

    NPCI unveils UPI safety awareness campaign – ‘Main Moorkh Nahi Hoon’

    Mumbai: The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched the UPI safety awareness campaign ‘Main Moorkh Nahi Hoon’, aimed at educating citizens about the safe use of digital payment services and preventing scams. Conceptualised by Ogilvy, the campaign seeks to equip users with the skills to identify and counter common threats and scams in the digital space.

    Although UPI is a secure platform, concerns over fraud have made some users wary of digital transactions. This initiative focuses on reinforcing UPI’s security features while offering practical advice on conducting safe transactions, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their digital security.

    Pankaj Tripathi, the campaign’s brand ambassador, stars in a series of six ad films that highlight prevalent scam tactics such as SMS phishing and deceptive online money schemes. The films, produced in 11 languages, are designed to reach a wide Indian audience, raising awareness across different regions and communities.

    Moongfaliwala

    Paanwala

    Two films in the series, Moongfaliwala and Paanwala, have already been released. These ads emphasise the need for vigilance and remind people not to let scammers exploit their kindness. The campaign aims to empower users to protect themselves from fraud and promote confidence in using UPI for secure transactions.

    NPCI MD & CEO Dilip Asbe said, “As India moves towards a digital-first future, it is important to empower citizens to prevent digital frauds. We believe this Digital Public Good campaign, through impactful and relatable stories, will empower users and equip them with the knowledge and skills to identify and fight online scams. User awareness is important to build trust in digital payment services and promote financial inclusion.”

    Ogilvy India chief advisor Piyush Pandey said, “This campaign recognises and salutes the common man with common sense. Enough common sense to protect himself/herself from being cheated by thieves and frauds. The common man becomes an influencer whose confidence is an inspiration, for everyone like you and me, to be smarter, and not be treated like a naive person, vulnerable to the cheats. Therefore, the line ‘Main Moorkh Nahi Hoon’.”

    The 360-degree media campaign aims to increase user education and reduce online scams, thereby boosting confidence in digital payments.

  • Kainaz Karmakar named One Show 2025 jury president

    Kainaz Karmakar named One Show 2025 jury president

    Mumbai: Ogilvy India CCO Kainaz Karmakar in Mumbai, has been named jury president for out-of-home, print & promotional for The One Show 2025.

    Senior creative leaders from around the world are appointed as Jury Presidents to lead the judging for each discipline, and have a vote on the work.  The list of confirmed jury presidents can be viewed here.  

    In addition, members of The One Club board of directors will be present during judging, serving as non-voting facilitators in jury discussions.

    “The One Show’s reputation is built on the integrity of its juries and judging process,” said The One Club CEO Kevin Swanepoel. “Kainaz and the rest of the jury presidents will help further this legacy of the fairest and most positive judging process.”

    Entries for The One Show 2025 are now open, with fees increasing after each deadline. The super-early entry deadline for maximum savings is 1 November 2024, followed by the early deadline on 13 December 2024, the regular deadline on 31 January 2025, the extended deadline on 14 February 2025, and the final deadline on 28 February 2025.

    The full juries will be announced in December, with early judging starting in January 2025. Finalists will be announced in April, and winners of the gold, silver, bronze pencil, and merit awards will be revealed during creative week in May 2025 in New York.

    Submissions must include work background, creative ideas, insights and strategy, execution, and results to support judges’ decisions and enhance the One Show awards archive.

    All winning entries are showcased in the archive and viewable for free for one year. Winners also receive a complimentary one-year membership to The One Club, which includes full archive access.

    Agencies, brands, production companies, and individuals behind winning work are featured in The One Show Creative Rankings and The One Club’s Global Creative Rankings, which combine results from The One Show, ADC Annual Awards, Type Directors Club (TDC) Awards, ADCE Awards, and One Asia Creative Awards. Winners are ranked globally, regionally, and by country.

  • Piyush Pandey honored with LIA Legend Award

    Piyush Pandey honored with LIA Legend Award

    Mumbai: Piyush Pandey, celebrated as the big daddy of Indian advertising, has been honored with the prestigious LIA Legend Award in Las Vegas on 1 October 2024. This global award, introduced in 2023, recognises industry leaders who have demonstrated outstanding creativity, leadership, and a commitment to mentoring others. Piyush is the second recipient of this honor, highlighting his immense contribution to the advertising world.

    With a career spanning over four decades, Piyush has transformed Indian advertising through his work at Ogilvy, where he began in 1982. From humble beginnings, he has won over 600 national and international awards, including the Padma Shri and the Lion of St. Mark at Cannes. Known for his ability to connect with audiences through relatable storytelling, Piyush’s campaigns have made a lasting impact, including his contributions to India’s polio eradication efforts.

    Having stepped into an advisory role at Ogilvy in 2024, Piyush continues to inspire the next generation of creatives. His books, Pandeymonium and Open House, reflect his belief in sharing knowledge and experience without prescription. This latest accolade is a testament to his enduring influence on the global advertising industry.

    LIA (London International Awards), founded in 1986 by Barbara Levy, celebrates creative excellence across media and has evolved into one of the top international creative festivals. The LIA Legend Award honors those who not only excel in creativity but also contribute to the industry’s growth through mentorship and collaboration.