In a country as diverse as India, is inclusivity possible? They say, ‘Unity in Diversity’. But can there be ‘Inclusivity in Diversity’? Language and religion… income and profession… countless elements divide us into smaller fragments. But is there anything that brings us together?
A strong unifying factor of all times is – Indian youth’s burning desire to transform. Be it ideas, beliefs, or perceptions, our youth have always rooted for social change. But with Millennials and Gen Z forming a huge section of society, we’re now shedding the old ways faster than ever.
With liberalization, the Millennials witnessed the advent of a truly global market. By the time Gen Z arrived on the scene, the boundaries were significantly blurred. One of the most significant aspects of this global transformation is inclusion.
Inclusive advertising
The idea of inclusivity quietly crawled into the world of advertising, with Millennials growing up to be the next consumers, followed by Gen Z. Brands wanting to target these generations who had to speak their language and appeal to their beliefs. Although businesses have been making serious attempts to raise awareness through advertisements, inclusive advertising has truly boomed only in the last few years. But even today, mainline advertising is largely limited to gender inclusion.
Social media, on the contrary, is bustling with brand communications addressing inclusivity in different areas, be it a disability, religion, old age, or something else. Why social media? Because that’s where their target audience is – the Millennials and Gen Z.
Take a look at these advertisements by leading brands that have great power to inspire social change.
Gender inclusion, especially that of transgenders is one of the most common topics addressed by many popular brands. Clearly, they don’t want to ignore this extremely important section of Indian society.
Touch of Care by Vicks
Based on transwoman Gauri Sawant’s true story, this heart-touching ad from Vicks took the internet by storm and instantly went viral. Gauri Sawant has herself featured in this ad.
Pure as Love by Bhima Jewelry
Meera Singhania Rehani, a transwoman, features in this viral, emotional ad that follows the transformational journey of a transwoman. The most beautiful aspect of this ad is that the parents are supporting their child throughout this phase and introducing her to their community with her newfound identity.
Hum Fark Nahi Karte by Pathkind Labs
Transgenders are one of the worst-hit groups during the pandemic. This endearing ad by Pathkind Labs talks about providing essential services, and affection to them without any bias.
Bound by Love by Edelweiss Mutual Funds
Another heartwarming ad, celebrates the sibling bond and talks about how a transgender person helps a family in need after their sole breadwinner’s demise.
Bold is Beautiful by Anouk
Pregnant women are commonly discriminated against at their workplaces. Radhika Apte features in this inspiring ad that highlights how pregnant women are expected to take a break from their careers.
Many brands have stepped up to create impactful messaging on many other subjects.
Har Rang Khoobsurat by Shalimar Paints – Colour Discrimination
For centuries, darker skin tones have been frowned upon by Indians, and that’s exactly what Shalimar Paints subtly highlights through this ad revolving around a house helper and her daughter and the family she works with.
Swad Apnepan Ka by Brooke Bond Red Label – Religious Discrimination
Much has been said about Hindu-Muslim unity. But this beautiful ad by Brooke Bond uses a cup of piping hot tea to connect a Hindu Ganesha worshipper with a Muslim Ganesha idolmaker.
Including the disabled in the fold of society is another task that we have ahead of us. Technology has proven to be a much-needed boon in this case. Brands like Samsung and Paisa Bazaar have ensured that they take some concrete steps towards empowering those with disabilities.
Caring for the Impossible by Samsung Good Vibes App
A heart-touching ad, it takes us through a blind girl’s journey of becoming independent and self-sufficient. Away from her family, in a hostel, she stays connected with her mother through the Good Vibes App on her Samsung mobile phone.
The Wedding Speech by Paisa Bazaar
Truly heartwarming, this ad by Paisa Bazaar explores the bittersweet bond between two brothers, one of whom is deaf and mute.
Senior and super-senior citizens often experience discrimination of various sorts. These two heartwarming ads shed more light on the subject.
Maa Nahi Bhoolti by Domino’s and Dadi by Help Age India
Weren’t these truly eye-opening?
Inclusive advertising still has a long way to go in India. But these ads are proof that we are inching toward a society that leaves no scope for discrimination against the marginalized or oppressed or helpless. Are you hopping on the bandwagon yet?