Known for kick-starting the careers of many in the world of advertising, Conrad Saldanha was best known for his years with Rediffusion.
He was the pillar of strength to all those he took under his care. With friends aplenty, Conrad Saldanha was a man of few words and a warm smile. After a brief illness, he passed away yesterday in New Zealand, where he had immigrated to after retirement from the advertising world. Though far from here, he was never forgotten. The gratitude and pain can be felt in the words that have cropped up online, with advertising professionals expressing grief for the man who taught them well.
Remembering Connie, marketing whiz Sunil Alagh took to Twitter to express how Saldanha was the nicest person he knew and will immensely miss. Always helpful with a heart of gold and a sense of humour, he wrote. Cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle chipped in, reminiscing his early days where Saldanha had played the role of a friend, mentor and father-figure. He mirrors on the state of mourning that has gripped the advertising world at the new of Saldanha’s demise.
Conrad Saldanha (Connie as I knew him) having passed away has left me stunned nspeechless. Was so looking fwd 2his annual visit next month. By far d nicest person I knew- always helpful, heart of gold with a sense of humour. Will miss him immensely. Ptay for his soul. In sorrow
— Sunil Alagh (@sunilalagh) October 21, 2019
Everyone in the advertising world, including a marginal presence like me, is in mourning at the passing of the much loved Conrad Saldanha of Rediffusion. He was a friend, mentor and father-figure to so many, was universally liked and was, just simply, a good kind man.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 21, 2019
Salt Brand Solutions Director, Mahesh Chauhan wrote a heartfelt obituary on Facebook. “Conrad’s trust empowered. It inspired you to be your best. He gave you the freedom and would never interfere. And of course, he was there to back you no matter what. His mere presence during a presentation was a blessing for your words, his regal demeanour adding greater gravitas to your argument,” he wrote.
Advertising is full of the Don Drapers. This is a celebration of his anti-thesis, Conrad Saldanha, my dear friend who…
Posted by Mahesh Chauhan on Monday, 21 October 2019
A sad day for the industry, indeed.
