Get Ready for a Trip Down Memory Lane with 8 Timeless Vintage Ads from the Good Old Days

There is nothing quite like an old print ad to take you back in time. Black and white memories, old taglines, the delight at rediscovering things we thought we’d forgotten – all this and more send you tripping down memory lane.

Here’s a look at a few evergreen ads that are sure to make you feel nostalgic:

1. Amul

Source: India Forums

A household brand, Amul works on making an everyday product like butter stand out thanks to witty advertising. The brand was started in 1946 and has been credited with kickstarting India’s White Revolution. The company’s creativity hasn’t faltered over the years; it has explored every theme under the sun – from Sachin Tendulkar’s batting to paying tribute to braveheart Neerja Bhanot.

2. Air India

Source: Tumblr

It’s a brand name synonymous with the country and flying, adventure and a thirst for the unknown. One of Air India’s most memorable ads featured Zeenat Aman – visuals that spurred a sense of longing for home and one’s roots.

3. Maggi

Source: Blogspot

Hard to forget all those Maggi ads. Instant two-minute noodles for the hungry soul, they reassured mothers and kids all over the country – like this ad, simple and heartwarming, ushering in the good times.

4. Taj Mahal Tea

Source: Blogspot

Since 1966, Taj Mahal tea has managed to retain its solid presence in the hearts of Indians as the go-to brand for that quintessential cup of chai. Images of Zakir Hussain and the glorious monument come to mind. But did you know Zeenat Aman once featured in an ad for Taj Mahal as well?

5. Britannia Glucose-D

Source: Blogspot

Gabbar from Ramesh Sippy’s Sholay is an iconic figure in Indian cinema. Britannia chose to highlight this by featuring the villain in their ads, an unusual choice. They played around with the tagline, “Gabbar Ki Asli Pasand.” There was also a gem – “Kitne Biscuit the?”

6. Campa Cola

Source:Blogspot

The days when Campa Cola was a common sight were simply different. The brand reigned supreme until the arrival of overseas players, Coca-Cola and Pepsi, in India. Their tagline was “The Great Indian Taste.”

7. Cadbury

Source: India Forums

Still going strong, Cadbury’s sheer size and diversity in terms of its products has attracted fans from all over the country. The Indian operations took off in 1948 and there is a lot to choose from – candy, chocolate confectionery, biscuits, and more. It’s a familiar name, a source of comfort.

8. Parle-G

Source: India Forums

It’s a much-loved name – everyone knows the feeling of dipping a Parle-G biscuit in a cup of hot milk and being quick enough to eat it before it crumbles. Even today, a train ride via Vile Parle allows those commuting on crowded trains to get a whiff of the delicious biscuits, found even in tiny little tea-shops and paan booths.

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