Troubleshooter, eternal swashbuckler, legend: Industry mourns Fali Vakeel

Ad industry oldhand Fali Vakeel passed away this morning, presumably due to a heart attack. Born in the year 1952, Vakeel died just two months shy of his birthday on May 6th at age 71. 

"Our beloved Fali passed away peacefully at 4.10 am. His soul rests in peace," said the family.  

Vakeel played a pivotal role in charting the growth of Lowe Lintas, often called the ‘Last of the Mad Men in Indian advertising’ by his colleagues and peers.

He was an inspirational figure in the world of Indian advertising ever since he entered the industry in the 80s. In his illustrious career, Vakeel worked with many key figures in the industry, many of whom have expressed grief and shock at the veteran's passing. 

Harish Bhat, Former Brand Custodian, Tata Sons, said, “I was deeply saddened to hear of Fali Vakeel’s passing away. Fali led the partnership between Lowe Lintas and Tanishq during the early years of this business. He built deep foundations of a strong relationship which has withstood the test of time. Fali brought to our discussions a fine strategic mind and a wonderful understanding of brands. His guidance and observations were sharp and insightful. Fali was ever graceful in a charming old-world way. It was a privilege to work with him. I would like to pay personal tribute to all his contributions over the years. We will miss you, Fali. But we will never forget you.” 

“I am deeply saddened to hear this news. Fali gave me my first break by offering me a summer project in Lintas Bangalore while I was in college, and that led me to get my first advertising agency job with him in Lintas. He was a very warm and spirited person with a great sense of humour. A lovely boss to have especially at the start of one’s career. May his soul rest in peace.”, said, CVL Srinivas, Country Manager, WPP India. 

Amer Jaleel, Founder at Curativity, said, “In my memory, Fali is the eternal swashbuckler! His style, charm, and acerbic wit are the stuff of legends but perhaps less well-known is his iron hand on client businesses and brands and revenues. He was someone I could only admire from far as a kid CD. I remember getting up and following him surreptitiously around trying to figure the brand name on his designer jeans. Now these labels may be common, but they were never less than Salvatore Ferragamo and Hugo Boss on Fali’s backside!”

Virat Tandon, Founder of Curativity, also said, “Fali was the most loved person at Lintas. He was fun to work with and just to be with. He was totally selfless. Did so much for his people to shine, never wanting to be in the spotlight himself. Full of wit, he would call a spade a spade in his own charming way. There are so many stories about how he would say unsayable things in the most charming ways. Never afraid to speak his mind, he was Lintas' trouble-shooter. He would go to the Lintas offices or meet the clients to sort out any issues or crises. And everyone would feel lighter after that. He would make things right. He loved Lintas too much. When he hired me in 2004 he asked me if I were an organisation's person. He showed me over the years what it meant to be one. Fali would do anything for Lintas. This was his family. I have very fond memories of the time I spent with Fali. He will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.”