Ad spot: Google Pixel, Heinz, Palmonas and more

This week, we take a look at ads that blend Bollywood nostalgia, humor, pop culture and innovation, from Palmonas' iconic film callback to Heinz's game-changing fry box design.

19 Jan 2026 15:19 IST

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In this week's ad spot, brands are tapping into cultural moments through Bollywood nostalgia, self-aware sports humor, and practical product innovation that solves everyday frustrations.

First up, jewellery brand Palmonas brings together Bollywood actors Shraddha Kapoor and Amrita Rao in a campaign that cleverly revives the iconic 'Jal lijiye' moment from the 2006 film Vivah. Created by SuperFat Studios, the collaboration bridges two distinct Bollywood eras, using familiar pop-culture references to create conversation around the brand. With Kapoor serving as both co-founder and campaign face, the ad demonstrates how memory and influencer-led storytelling can drive cultural relevance beyond simple product promotion.

Next, Google Pixel tried to score a viral win with Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri in an ad that quietly pokes fun at his infamous 2022 contract drama with Alpine. The deadpan spot features Piastri walking into a room where two men replace a painting of Alpine mountains with a papaya fruit, a subtle nod to his move to McLaren. The humor perfectly matches Piastri's famously stoic personality, letting visual jokes and understated delivery create a moment fans immediately connected with across social media.

Finally, Heinz tackles a universal problem with the Heinz Dipper, a patent-pending fry box featuring a built-in ketchup compartment designed for on-the-go dipping. The innovation addresses real frustrations: 70% of consumers have spilled ketchup while eating away from home, and 80% have considered skipping condiments due to poor packaging. Launching across eleven countries in restaurants and sports stadiums, the Dipper represents practical design thinking that turns an everyday annoyance into a brand opportunity.

Let us take a look at all the ads that stood out this week.