Two Story Ideas, One Protagonist: The Tale of Zomato and Zepto's Holi Ads

When you step outside on Holi, there's a good chance someone will splash colors on you or toss a water balloon your way. Some enjoy it, while others don't. Zomato says it stands with the latter, particularly when it comes to ensuring the safety of its delivery executives.

In a new ad, two mischievous boys are shown in an office meeting room, tossing water balloons and colors at helpless employees. Later, they're perched on the roof of a single-story house, aiming at a Zomato delivery executive. The ad’s message reads, “Would you like this happening at work? Neither do we.”

“Request all of you to avoid hitting delivery partners (of any brand) with water balloons, this Holi. It may be a fun activity – but it can put them off-balance while riding their two-wheelers/bikes and cause an accident,” wrote Sahibjeet Singh Sawhney, marketing head of Zomato, on LinkedIn.

Meanwhile, quick commerce brand Zepto takes a slightly different approach. In an ad for detergent brand Surf Excel, a delivery executive tries his best to avoid getting drenched in colors but soon finds himself surrounded by Holi celebrators. With a smile, he gives in and tells them to go ahead. A thoughtful society resident then orders Surf Excel for him to clean his clothes later, which another Zepto delivery executive brings to his door.

After watching both ads, it's unfair to assume that Zepto doesn't care about its delivery staff just because it hasn't released a PSA. Both brands aim to celebrate the festival, with the underlying message being to enjoy it responsibly. Common sense reminds us to be mindful of our own safety and considerate of others.