Pandey to lead Cannes' jury

"It's a big recognition of all the work done over the years," Pandey said, describing it as an honour for Indian advertising. Pandey brings impressive credentials to the Cannes role: he has been voted the most influential person in Indian advertising in the Brand Equity annual Ad Agency Reckoner, and he is credited with leading from the front as O&M India transformed itself into a creative powerhouse. Pandey was also Media's 2002 Creative Person of the Year. However, the appointment was also accompanied by murmurs that jury selection is geared towards increasing entries from prime advertising markets.

Pandey claims he is ready for flak, but points out that an international ad festival needs to take into account the fact that certain countries, works and judges may not be as well known as others. "There will always be big players, but there will also be newcomers, and there has to be a balance," he said. Pandey insisted he would concentrate on being consistent and sensitive to the nuances involved in heading such a "highly evolved" jury, and his biggest challenge will be to come out of the experience with the least number of whistles from the discerning Cannes audience.