Mumbai: The second edition of the ad:tech HONOURS Awards 2026 is set to return with renewed momentum, announcing Ajay Kakar, Head – Corporate Branding at Adani Group, as Jury Chair. The announcement follows an overwhelmingly positive response to nominations, underscoring growing industry enthusiasm for technology-led innovation in advertising and marketing.
Organised in partnership with the International Advertising Association (India Chapter), the ad:tech HONOURS Awards aim to recognise and celebrate the transformational use of technology, platforms and tools that are reshaping modern marketing outcomes. This year’s edition has witnessed a record number of entries, reflecting the breadth and depth of innovation across the evolving digital ecosystem.
An Esteemed Jury for a New Era of Recognition
Chaired by Ajay Kakar, the 2026 jury panel brings together a diverse mix of senior leaders from brands, agencies, platforms and technology innovators. The jury members include:
- Amaresh Godbole, CEO, Digital Technology Business – Publicis Groupe
- Bishwajeet S, Head of Marketing & PR (CMO) – Volkswagen India
- Carol Goyal, Executive Director – Rediffusion & CEO, Aesthetic Intelligence Lab
- Kushal Sanghvi, Director – Komerz
- Lara Balsara, Executive Director – Madison World
- Rana Barua, Group CEO India, SEA & North Asia
- Deepak Oram, Senior Vice President – Growth Marketing & Martech
- Priyanka Khaneja Gandhi, Head Marketing & Creative Solutions – Amazon Ads India
Celebrating Impact, Technology & Collaboration
The ad:tech HONOURS Awards are uniquely positioned to recognise not just creativity, but the impactful application of technology that drives measurable results, scalability and long-term business value. Expanded categories this year reflect emerging industry imperatives, including artificial intelligence, data-driven marketing, content ecosystems, automation, martech and adtech integration, and commerce-led innovation.
Honours Night: A Celebration of Marketing Innovation
The awards ceremony will be held on 17 March 2026 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, alongside ad
New Delhi 2026. The evening will bring together leaders from brands, agencies, platforms, creators and technology partners to celebrate excellence and recognise the individuals and teams shaping the future of marketing in India.
