Vibrant Cherries of Indian Advertising: Forgotten Gems from the 90s

Introduction

India's advertising history is rich with memorable and catchy campaigns that have shaped the cultural zeitgeist. However, many of these advertisements from the past are often forgotten in the current digital age. In this article, we will explore some of these forgotten gems from the 90s, focusing on how they captured the essence of their era.

Classic Advertisements of the 90s

Doodh Doodh Kya Hai Amul

One of the most iconic advertisements is the classic Doodh Doodh Kya Hai Amul. This ad featured a simple yet catchy jingle that quizzed, “Doodh, doodh kya hai?”—meaning “what is milk?”—promoting the quality and purity of this brand. The popular catchphrase and the jingle have made it a cultural reference point even today.

Nirma Washing Powder

Another memorable ad is for Nirma Washing Powder, which featured the familiar jingle, “Nirma, washing powder, Nirma doodh ki safed.” These catchy tunes and jingles were key in making these products unforgettable. The jingles were simple yet catchy, and they left a lasting impression on the audience.

Lijjat Papad

Lijjat Papad ads were revolutionary as they showcased the cooperative movement of women. The brand used their tagline, “Papad ka marka, Lijjat papad,” to highlight their quality and taste. These advertisements often featured positive visuals of women working together, promoting the product while supporting the cooperative movement.

Ponds Cold Cream

Ponds Cold Cream had a series of ads in the 1980s and 1990s that focused on the beauty and skincare benefits of the product. The slogan, “Ponds, youthful skin starts here,” was a magnet for women looking to improve their skin over time. The ads often featured before-and-after transformations, evoking a sense of hope and ambition.

Bisk Farm Biscuits

Bisk Farm Biscuits ads often portrayed children enjoying the freshness and taste of the biscuits. These advertisements captured the essence of childhood snacks and nostalgia, making the brand relatable to a wide audience. The use of upbeat music and simple visuals highlighted the joy and satisfaction derived from these snacks.

Gwalior Suiting

Gwalior Suiting ads from the 1980s and 1990s were centered around quality and durability. These advertisements often featured men in stylish attire, emphasizing the elegance of the brand. The tagline, “High-quality suiting, Gwalior style,” resonated with a segment of the market that valued both style and substance.

Batas Shoes

Batas Shoes often used the tagline, “Batas, the shoe that does the walking.” This simple yet effective slogan was a hallmark of their brand. Their advertisements often focused on the comfort and durability of the shoes, resonating with customers who valued practicality and quality.

Mirinda

Mirinda soft drink ads in the 1990s featured vibrant colors and catchy tunes, emphasizing the refreshing taste of the drink. Songs like “Mirinda, mirinda, mirinda” became part of everyday lingo for those in the 90s, proving that catchy jingles can endure the test of time.

Kissan Ketchup

Kissan Ketchup ads often depicted families enjoying meals together, highlighting the product’s use in everyday cooking and enhancing meals. The tagline, “Kissan, lending color to your life,” captured the essence of the brand’s role in the kitchen.

Cadbury Dairy Milk

Cadbury Dairy Milk ads were popular, especially in the earlier campaigns. While still somewhat known, the earlier ads featuring a more animated and exuberant style of promotion have left a lasting legacy. The use of bright colors and playful messaging made these advertisements stand out in a crowded market.

Other Notable Advertisements

There were several other advertisements that were popular in the 90s, each contributing to the vibrancy of that era. Some standout brands include:

Atlas Hero Honda Hutch Mentos Ponds Colgate Rasna Ghadi Detergent Krack Jack Hero Punch Britannia

Conclusion

These advertisements reflect the cultural context of their times and often featured jingles or slogans that were catchy and relatable. They played a significant role in shaping the marketing landscape of the 90s and continue to resonate with those who grew up in that era. The nostalgia and the cultural significance of these advertisements make them truly memorable.