Atul will be remembered for his integrity, & commitment to innovation: Pankaj Sharma

Pankaj Sharma, CEO & Director MGID India, remembers Atul Hegde as a pioneer who recognized the transformative power of influencer marketing well before it became an industry cornerstone.

by e4m Staff
Published: Jul 7, 2026 1:45 PM | 1 min read

Pankaj Sharma, CEO & Director of MGID India, honored the late Atul Hegde as a pioneer in influencer marketing, recognizing his early vision for the industry.
Hegde's passing is seen as a significant loss to the digital and advertising sectors, following the recent loss of several influential leaders.
He was noted for his strategic foresight, entrepreneurial excellence, and successful leadership that guided his company toward an IPO.
Hegde was respected for his professionalism, integrity, and commitment to innovation, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire the digital advertising community.

Pankaj Sharma, CEO & Director MGID India, remembers Atul Hegde as a pioneer who recognized the transformative power of influencer marketing well before it became an industry cornerstone.

Here’s how he paid his tributes to Hegde:

The passing of Atul Hegde is a profound loss for the digital and advertising industry. Over the past few years, our ecosystem has lost far too many exceptional leaders, and today we bid farewell to another visionary.

Atul was among the pioneers who recognized the transformative power of influencer marketing well before it became an industry cornerstone. His ability to anticipate change, build a resilient business, and lead his company on the path to an IPO reflected both strategic foresight and entrepreneurial excellence.

Beyond his achievements, Atul was a respected industry leader whose professionalism, integrity, and commitment to innovation earned the admiration of peers across the ecosystem. Many of us had the privilege of learning from his leadership and witnessing firsthand the impact he made on the industry.

His legacy will continue to inspire the digital advertising community for years to come. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and everyone whose lives he touched.

May his soul rest in peace.