Industry bids farewell to advertising veteran Ram Sehgal

The Indian advertising fraternity is mourning the passing of Ram Sehgal, a respected leader whose career spanned more than 40 years and left a deep imprint on agencies, clients and young professionals. Across creative circles he was regarded as a sharp strategist, a steady administrator and a mentor who helped define the culture of several organisations. His name, Ram Sehgal, is closely associated with the rise of some of the most influential agencies in the country.

News of his demise has prompted an outpouring of memories from colleagues who worked with him at different stages of his journey. Many recall his ability to combine business focus with a strong belief in creative standards, and to guide teams through changing eras in Indian advertising.

Sehgal began his advertising career at S H Benson, which later became part of Ogilvy. He then moved to JWT, where he spent 15 years learning the workings of a large multinational network and building relationships with clients and teams.

His next chapter was at Contract Advertising, a JWT subsidiary, where he was seconded as president. Over a 16 year tenure, he played a central role in molding Contract into one of the most respected agencies in the country. Under his leadership, Contract built a reputation for sharp thinking, strong client partnerships and a professional work culture.

His influence extended beyond a single agency. He later served as president of Everest in 1999 and 2000, and in 2001 he succeeded Sandeep Goyal as president of Rediffusion. These leadership roles placed him at the helm of some of the most closely watched agencies in the market during a period of intense change for brands and media.

Industry bodies also benefited from his involvement. Sehgal served as president of the Advertising Agencies Association of India and chaired the Advertising Standards Council of India for 2 years, bringing his experience and integrity to self regulation and industry governance. Recognition followed in the form of the A and M Advertising Man of the Year award, and in 2001 the advertising club of Kolkata elected him to its Hall of Fame.

Beyond boardrooms and industry platforms, Sehgal was a prolific writer who contributed articles to newspapers and magazines on a wide variety of subjects. He authored 4 books titled Mixed Feelings, Secrets of Advertising, Around the World in 40 Years and What’s Cooking, reflecting his interest in both professional insight and personal reflection.

In recent years he was reportedly living in Pondicherry and was associated with Sri Aurobindo Ashram. Friends and colleagues remember him as a thoughtful leader who combined discipline with warmth, and as someone who helped shape both campaigns and careers over several decades. His passing marks the end of an important chapter in the story of Indian advertising.

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