The advertising and media landscape of Gujarat came together in a vibrant celebration of creativity and collaboration as the Ahmedabad Advertising Welfare Circle Association (AACA) commemorated its 35th anniversary. The grand Festival of Advertising 2026 served as the stage for this milestone, with its centerpiece event, the AACA Media Awards 2026, recognizing outstanding work from across the state.
A Grand Gathering for a Landmark Anniversary
This landmark event successfully brought together a wide spectrum of advertising agencies and media professionals under one roof. The gathering was not just a ceremony but a testament to three and a half decades of shared growth, innovation, and partnership within Gujarat's dynamic advertising community. The festival is now recognized as the largest celebration of its kind for the advertising and media fraternity in the state.
Expanded Reach and Diverse Honors
A significant highlight of this year's awards was the association's decision to broaden its geographical scope. For the first time, the platform actively sought and recognized contributions from agencies operating in Central Gujarat, South Gujarat, and the Saurashtra-Kutch region. This inclusive move underscored the vital role these regional players have in driving the local economy and enriching the industry's creative fabric.
The ceremony was a comprehensive showcase of media excellence, distributing a total of 39 awards across a wide array of categories. These included:
- Print advertising
- Television and cinema advertising
- Radio campaigns
- Outdoor advertising
- Digital advertising
Confidence and Impact of a Mature Industry
Reflecting on the enthusiastic participation and high-quality entries, AACA President Manish Gandhi shared his insights. He stated that the overwhelming response is a clear indicator of the industry's current state. According to Gandhi, it shows that Gujarat's advertising industry is creatively confident, strategically mature, and genuinely impactful in its outreach and messaging.
Beyond the main awards night, the Festival of Advertising 2026 was packed with other engaging events designed to inspire and connect. The festival agenda featured four other major components:
- Creative Spark: A competitive platform dedicated to nurturing young talent from student communities.
- Kala Sangam: A special confluence celebrating art and literature, adding a cultural dimension to the festival.
- Legend Talk Show: An interactive session featuring insights and stories from industry veterans and leaders.
- Additional industry-specific sessions for professional development and networking.
The successful execution of the AACA Media Awards 2026 and the accompanying festival solidifies Ahmedabad's position as a key hub for advertising thought leadership and creative celebration in Western India. It marks a proud moment for the association, highlighting 35 years of fostering talent, recognizing excellence, and building a cohesive professional community.
