Hit or Miss: The week in ads

The advertising world has welcomed the new year with campaigns that reflect creatives stepping up their game, blending creativity, nostalgia, and star power.

Several brands are coming in hot with ads that resonate across the audience.

This week’s campaigns have set the tone for 2025, some with stellar storytelling and others... well, not so much. Let’s break down the hits and misses of the first week of the year!

Zandu Balm: The Legacy Lives On

Zandu Balm revisits its roots with an ad that highlights its rich heritage while adding a cinematic touch. The emotional undertone paired with relatable visuals makes it memorable. The product remains the hero, with a narrative that appeals to both old and new generations. It’s a hit and legacy done right.

California Almonds: Health with a Side of Glam

California Almonds’ latest campaign goes heavy on style but light on substance. While visually appealing, it fails to make a meaningful connection. The focus on aesthetics overshadows the product’s health benefits. It's a miss cause it's all glam, no grit.

Swiggy Instamart ft. Himesh Reshammiya: Grocery Grooves

Himesh Reshammiya’s larger-than-life persona elevates this quirky ad. Combining his signature style with Swiggy’s promise of instant groceries, the campaign delivers on humour and relatability, making it hard to ignore. OTT brilliance with a purpose making it a hit.

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Streax Gel Hair ft. Malaika Arora: Shine That Misses

Malaika Arora’s timeless charm can’t save this ad from feeling outdated. While the message of confidence is clear, the execution lacks the modern appeal needed to connect with today’s audience. Its a miss, needs a fresher look.

IIFL Finance: Soch Kar, Samajh Kar, Bharosa Kar

The campaign highlights IIFL’s trustworthiness through real-life scenarios, making financial planning feel approachable and reliable. The simplicity and authenticity resonate with its audience. It was a hit cause it shows trust simplified.

Oppo Reno 13 ft. Ishaan Khattar, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Vedang Raina: Tech with Swagger

Oppo Reno 13 kicks off 2025 with an ad that oozes youthful energy. The trio of Ishaan, Siddhant, and Vedang brings vibrancy to a campaign that blends tech features with aspirational vibes. It's a hit cause its Cool, confident, compelling.

MediBuddy: New Year, Same Message

MediBuddy rings in the new year with a health-focused ad that emphasizes resolutions. While well-intentioned, the concept feels overly familiar, lacking the freshness to make it stand out. These Resolutions need reinvention, kinda miss.

Mamy Poko Pants: Adorable Always Wins

This heartwarming ad showcases the joys and challenges of parenting through delightful visuals of toddlers. It’s simple, cute, and effective, staying true to the brand’s essence. Its a hit cause Cuteness always delivers.

McCain: Bangalore Mazza Badhega

McCain celebrates Bangalore’s vibrant food culture in this fun, flavorful campaign. The focus on local pride and global tastes makes it relatable and exciting for its audience. A tasty treat for foodies shown with a good ad, it's a hit.