Diwali, one of the most celebrated Indian festivals, embraces the values of togetherness and sharing at its heart. It’s also a period full of shopping sprees and heartfelt campaigns. Year after year, brands and agencies come out with campaigns that hold values and togetherness at their core. But there are some, which have imprinted themselves in the minds of the audience.
Here’s a quick read on some of the most heartwarming Diwali campaigns of recent times.
- HP’s Umeed ka Diya
HP printer, in 2018, released “Umeed ka Diya”. This ad creatively highlighted the potential technology has to support local craftsmen and artisans across India. Bear this in mind, they did it at a time when social media wasn’t in its A game, and didn’t impact every aspect of our living. They promoted HP laptops and printers, while emphasising on the impact of digital technology in empowering these craftsmen and bringing hope to their lives.
They did it again with #DiwaliDilWali, a follow up on the earlier campaign. While everyone has been #VocalForLocal, the route and product integration done by HP is what makes this brand different.
- Surf Excel’s #AbLagRahiDiwali
Surf Excel has always encouraged people to take a moment and look beyond their own home and family, to help others join the festivities and celebrate festivals in their true spirit. Not long ago, they released #AbLagRahiDiwali, a beautiful film showcasing Diwali through the eyes of a little boy.
His take on bringing colours and revelry to the dhobi’s home, and in turn decorating his home for the festival of lights, touched our hearts. As we gear up to celebrate Diwali again, this ad serves as a reminder to be the light of somebody’s life.
3. Swiggy’s Yeh Diwali, Khaali Haath Kisiko Waapas Nahi Bhejtey Hain!
Diwali is deep-rooted in the traditions of sharing the love and blessings. Swiggy replicated the same with the age-old saying, “Diwali mein kisi ko khaali haath wapas nahi bhejte.”
Its ad started with a little boy going door to door, giving Diwali gifts to all his neighbours. At the end of the day, we see a knock on the kid’s home, and a Swiggy delivery on the door. While his father opens the door and takes the food, the little boy stands put. And then he does something sweet that will pull on your heartstrings. He brings a bowl to the delivery boy, and wishes him Happy Diwali, reminding us that “Diwali mein kisi ko ghar se khaali haath wapas nahi bhejte.”
4. This is not just a Cadbury ad
Most brands tell warm stories of togetherness and bonding with family, friends and neighbours during Diwali. Cadbury weaved in “togetherness and inclusiveness” into the heart of their campaign, but took it a step ahead, with a well told, warm story of local retailers.
The Diwali ad by Cadbury in 2020 brought neighbourhood stores to the limelight, a segment of society which had been badly impacted by Covid. It cemented their stand as a responsible, inclusive brand that believes growth is sustainable when the ecosystem grows together.
The campaign stood out in terms of its coming together of ideas, execution and technology at every stage, from conceptualization to a hyper personalised media plan.
Agencies are once again abuzz with lights and insights that crack and make a spark in the ad world. Multiple brands have done a fair job in creating a connection between the festival and their brand through an emotional and well-executed campaign, but these four steal the show. Which is your favourite Diwali campaign? Comment and let us know.
At 3 Dots Design, we believe in curating campaigns that make a difference, not just for our brands, but also our audience. To know more about our work, visit https://www.3dotsdesign.in/