The 80’s were a time when people would be invited to their neighbour’s home so that they could watch in envy as the owners proudly showed off their ‘colour’ TV. Since there were only two channels at max, everyone scoffed at a TV with a remote control, because it simply had no use! In the 80’s Indian cricket coverage consisted of the camera trying to guess where the ball was and Australia’s Channel 9 was considered the gold standard. However, the ads form that time were endearing, enjoyable and memorable – perhaps low-tech but high on the feel good factor! Here are a list of the best TV ads from the 80’s.

1. Liril

Karen Lunel

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This was India’s original bikini babe – one of the reasons people visited movie theaters. And then one day she was frolicking in the waterfall on our TV screens too! Click here to watch.

 

2. Bajaj Light Bulbs

Jab mei chhota ladka tha

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Everyone knew the Jab main chhota ladka tha song by heart! The ad marked the arrival of slice of life Indian TV ads. Click here to watch.

 

3. Pan Parag

Shammi Kapoor

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Featuring two of Hindi cinema’s stalwarts Ashok Kumar and Shammi Kapoor this wasn’t just an ad for paan masala, but also a comment against the social evil of dowry! An ad ahead of its time! Click here to watch.

 

4. Hamara Bajaj

Buland bharat ki buland tasveer

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Aspirational India wanted scooters then, and this delightful ad spoke to an entire nation – बुलंद भारत की बुलंद तस्वीर! Click here to watch.

 

5. Complan

Ayesha takia and shahid kapur

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I’m a Complan Boy! I’m a Complan Girl!  Who was around in the 80’s, and doesn’t remember this one? By the way, the boy and girl are Ayesha Takia and Shahid Kapur. Click here to watch.

 

6. Bullet

Meri Jaan

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Bullet meri jaan. Old ad from the 80’s with a qawali jingle, which helped this bike to become one of India’s most coveted bikes, then and now! Click here to watch.

 

7. Vicks

Khich khich door karo

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The foul tasting lozenge/cough drop was not as hated by kids after this ad came out. Click here to watch.

8. Lijjat Papad

Papad

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The cute puppet in the ad was the brand mascot that made the humble papad, cool! Click here to watch.

 

9. Limca

Salman Khan

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Featuring Salman Khan (yes that gangling football player is him) who remembers this one? No? Never mind, just enjoy! Click here to watch.

 

10. Maggi Hot and Sweet

Javed and Pankaj

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It was a time of Ajit jokes and who didn’t love these Its Different! series of ads! Click here to watch. Here is another one and another one.

 

Author: Reena Daruwalla