Harshad is an industry leader and champion of creative work in his country, India. With an experience of over 27 years, his understanding of Indian culture is reflected in much of his work. ‘Creative is Effective’ has been the mantra he lives by, to push for fearless ideas with his teams as well as client partners.

He is a recipient of numerous global awards, starting with a Clio in his very first year of advertising and multiple ones through the years, 25 Cannes Lions of every colour (including India’s first Creative Effectiveness Grand Prix Lion in 2018, and the Glass Lion for change in 2016), D&AD (including multiple White Pencils for D&AD Impact), One Show, London International Awards, AdFest, Spikes, and New York Festivals.

His work from 2010 to 2020 has contributed to Ogilvy India being ranked India’s leading agency of the decade in the first ever ‘Cannes Lions Creativity Report (2010-2020)’.

But his most valued award remains his cherished 17-year partnership with his work partner, Kainaz Karmakar.

Harshad is also an avid street photographer who documents life in his city of Mumbai, in his photo-essay series, ‘A Close Shave Called Mumbai’.

He is active in nurturing young creatives in the Indian landscape, who are themselves emerging as the future creative leaders of India.