Obituary: Remembering Publicis' Murari Dutt Uniyal

He worked at Publicis Capital, Gurgaon, as art director. His friends and colleagues in the industry fondly remember him for his helpful nature, childlike innocence and dedication to his work.

Murari Dutt Uniyal, art director with Publicis Capital, Gurgaon, passed away on Sunday (November 30). Uniyal succumbed to injuries from a road accident that took place in Uttarakhand. He is survived by his wife and two children. Maddy, as his friends in the ad industry fondly called him, was 46.

Uniyal spent 12 years in the advertising industry. Agencies he worked with before joining Publicis Capital include Everest Brand Solutions and Rediffusion-Y&R.

Hemant Misra, ‎chief executive officer, Publicis Capital, tells afaqs!, "Maddy joined us about nine years ago as a studio artist. He was, however, not content with just being in that role. It is a sheer testament to his talent, creative spirit and his ability to work proactively beyond his role that saw him eventually graduate to the creative department. He became an integral member of the creative team and worked on brands like Swift, Merino Laminates and Escort Tractors. His enthusiasm in everything he did was contagious."

"He was a go-getter and a person who wanted to live life to the fullest. He was dedicated to his work and never hesitated before helping someone in need. He will always be there in my memories. It will take time to come to terms with this unfortunate news," says Rahul Gupta, former advertising professional, who worked closely with Uniyal during his Everest days, and grew to become his close friend.

Ashutosh Joshi, founder, Uncommon Sense Communications, a broadcasting and media production house, remembers Uniyal as a "noble soul." He says, "We worked together at Rediffusion-Y&R couple of years back. The ever-smiling Maddy was always there to help anyone and everyone... I am deeply saddened."

Adds Joy Mohanty, national creative director, Publicis Capital, "Maddy was someone who was a friend to all in the agency. His was a shoulder anyone and everyone could lean on, and he was always there for people. He had many qualities that made him a person everyone will deeply miss, but his simplicity and childlike innocence were the most endearing. Maddy will always be in our hearts."