The Godfather of the Sri Lankan Advertising Industry

In the history of Sri Lankan advertising, one name stands out as a pioneering force: Reggie Candappa. Often referred to as the “Godfather of Sri Lankan Advertising,” Candappa’s legacy is a testament to his visionary leadership and creative genius.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Reggie Candappa was born on May 14, 1919, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. A diverse range of interests and talents marked his early career. He began as a political cartoonist and graphic designer, skills that would later define his approach to advertising. His work at Lake House, the home of the Associated Newspapers of Ceylon, provided him with a solid foundation in journalism, print production, and political satire.

Founding Grant Advertising

In 1958, Candappa founded Grant Advertising, Sri Lanka’s first international advertising agency. Starting from his dining room table with his wife Theresa, Candappa’s agency quickly grew, thanks to his innovative ideas and relentless drive. Grant Advertising, later known as Grant McCann Erickson and now Dentsu Grant, became synonymous with creativity and excellence, setting new benchmarks in the industry.

Iconic Campaigns

Candappa’s work is characterized by its creativity and cultural relevance. Some of his most famous campaigns include:

• Elephant House: Candappa’s campaigns for Elephant House, a leading brand in Sri Lanka, are legendary. His creative use of the brand’s iconic green and white stripes helped cement its place in the market.
• Kist: Another notable campaign was for Kist, where Candappa’s innovative approach helped the brand become a household name.
• Polio Eradication: Candappa also played a crucial role in social campaigns, such as the polio eradication drive, showcasing his ability to blend creativity with social responsibility.

Contributions to Art

In addition to his business activities, Candappa was also a painter. He held four one-man shows and received the “Kalapathy” award from the Ceylon Society of Arts in 1988. His artistic talents further enriched his advertising work, allowing him to create visually compelling campaigns that resonated with audiences.

Legacy and Impact

Reggie Candappa’s influence extends beyond his campaigns. He was a mentor to many in the industry, nurturing a generation of advertising professionals who continue to shape the field. Today, His agency remains a leader in the Sri Lankan advertising landscape, continuing his legacy of innovation and excellence.

Candappa’s contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. His work has not only elevated the standards of advertising in Sri Lanka but also placed the country on the global advertising map.

Conclusion

Reggie Candappa’s journey is a remarkable story of creativity, resilience, and visionary leadership. As the godfather of Sri Lankan advertising, his legacy continues to inspire and influence the industry. His work demonstrates that great advertising is not just about selling products but about creating lasting impressions and driving social change.