'His irrepressible zest for life': Anand Mahindra bids a tearful farewell to his friend Piyush Pandey in an emotional note

Anand Mahindra took to X to bid an emotional farewell to his friend and advertising legend Piyush Pandey, reflecting on a life that was larger than campaigns and brands. For Mahindra, what stood out wasn’t the iconic ads or the global footprints, but Pandey’s hearty laugh, boundless energy, and an irrepressible zest for life—a reminder that joy and humanity can coexist even in the most serious pursuits.

Piyush Pandey’s career in advertising was nothing short of monumental, leaving indelible marks on brands and campaigns that shaped the industry. Yet beyond the accolades, those close to him remember a man who carried an “invincible summer” within, spreading warmth, humour, and humanity in every interaction. Mahindra’s tribute captures this beautifully, painting a portrait of a friend who made life richer, fuller, and infinitely more joyful for everyone around him.

Through Mahindra’s words, Pandey’s legacy emerges not just as a master of persuasion but as a soul who reminded the world to laugh, care, and celebrate life amidst all its seriousness.

Yes, he was a man who left gigantic footprints on the ad industry…

But what I will remember most is not the campaigns he crafted or the brands he built, but his hearty laugh and his irrepressible zest for life.
He reminded us that even in the serious business of persuasion,… pic.twitter.com/6C1SJHwFH6

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) October 24, 2025