Mumbai: Diwan Arun Nanda, the advertising legend and former Chairman of Rediffusion, has passed away at the age of 82. A pioneering figure in Indian advertising, Nanda steered Rediffusion for five decades, leaving behind an enduring legacy that shaped the industry.
In July 2023, Nanda stepped down from the chairmanship of Rediffusion after 50 years at the helm, citing advancing age. The leadership baton was then passed on to his protégé, Dr. Sandeep Goyal.
Nanda’s journey to the top of the advertising world began with academic brilliance. He was the first gold medallist of the inaugural batch of IIM Ahmedabad in 1966 and among the first batch of management trainees recruited by Hindustan Lever. As Brand Manager at Lever, he created the iconic ‘lightning strikes’ mnemonic for Rin, a campaign that is remembered to this day.
In 1973, Nanda co-founded Rediffusion, which went on to become one of India’s most influential creative agencies. His career also extended beyond advertising. From 1983 to 1991, he served as Advisor to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. He was later appointed Chairman of Dentsu Young & Rubicam, the Asian joint venture of the two global advertising giants.
Nanda was also a two-time President of the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) and a recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award in the early 2000s. His influence was not confined to advertising alone — he served on the boards of Air India, Eveready, Kingfisher Airlines, Yes Bank, and several other leading companies.
Colleagues and industry veterans remember Nanda not only as a sharp strategist and creative powerhouse but also as a mentor who shaped generations of advertising professionals. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian advertising, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, leadership, and innovation.
