The advertising world has lost another legend with the passing of Mr. Arun Nanda. His role in shaping Rediffusion into one of the most respected agencies in India will forever be remembered as a defining contribution to Indian advertising.
Although I never worked at Rediffusion, I did attend a couple of interviews there in my early career. At that time, the agency was one of the most admired places to be. Known for hiring top talent from IIMs and fostering a culture of excellence, Rediffusion stood apart as a hub of creativity and strategic brilliance. Much of that reputation was built under the stewardship of Arun Nanda.
Beyond the world of brands and clients, Nanda also played a significant role in India’s political communication. He was closely connected to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and was instrumental in developing the Congress campaign during the 1980s — work that helped redefine how political narratives could be shaped through modern, creative advertising. It reflected his ability to blend insight, creativity, and cultural resonance on a scale few could match.
As a person, Arun Nanda was admired for much more than his professional achievements. He had a multifaceted personality — from his sharp strategic mind to his love for horses. His refusal to allow WPP to take over Rediffusion showed his deep conviction in independence and his commitment to preserving the agency’s identity and ethos at a time when global acquisitions were becoming the norm.
Above all, he believed in the power of creativity. Under his leadership, Rediffusion delivered some of the most iconic campaigns in Indian advertising for Jenson & Nicholson Paints, Eveready Battery, and Gold Spot, among many others. These campaigns were not just advertisements; they were cultural markers that people still remember decades later.
Arun Nanda was more than a leader — he was a mentor, visionary, and inspiration to countless professionals. His legacy lives on in the work he created, the talent he nurtured, and the standards he set for Indian advertising.
Rest in peace, sir — your impact on both industry and nation will never be forgotten.
(Views are personal)
