Introduction: How a Single Ad Can Change Everything

Advertising isn’t just about selling products anymore — it’s about creating moments people can’t stop talking about. In the last decade, we’ve seen brands use bold ideas, sharp execution, and emotional storytelling to make campaigns go viral. The 5 Ad Shoot Case Studies That Went Viral we’ll explore today prove that a single, well-crafted shoot can generate millions in revenue and unforgettable cultural impact.

From viral ad campaigns that made headlines to creative advertising examples that inspired future marketers, these stories reveal the whole truth about what makes an ad stick in public memory. Whether you’re a student, a marketer, or a brand manager looking for marketing campaign ideas, you’ll learn how these campaigns broke through the noise.

We’ll also share tips you can apply today — whether you’re using influencer marketing India, UGC videos, or even AI influencer marketing.

1. Cadbury Dairy Milk – “Kuch Khaas Hai” Revival Campaign

1.1. Why It Went Viral

Cadbury revived its iconic 1994 cricket-ground ad in 2021 — with a gender role reversal. Instead of a girl cheering a male batsman, it showed a man cheering for a female cricketer. This smart nod to the original brought nostalgia and relevance together.

Fact: The campaign gained over 15 million YouTube views in the first month and was named one of the best ad campaigns in India in 2021.

1.2. Marketing Lessons

• Nostalgia can be a powerful emotional trigger.
• Reversing roles can spark conversations without controversy.
• Quality production enhances shareability — making it one of the most famous TV commercials in recent years.

Key takeaway: Blend the old and new to appeal to multiple generations.

2. Zomato – “Order Kar” Series

2.1. The Creative Approach

Zomato tapped top influencers in India and Bollywood celebrities for quick, relatable, and quirky ad shoots. The “Order Kar” line became a meme-worthy catchphrase, seen across social media.

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Data Insight: According to Social Samosa, Zomato’s campaign saw a 25% spike in app installs within two weeks.

2.2. Why It Worked

• Perfect timing with cricket and festival seasons.
• Heavy integration with UGC videos where users recreated the ad.
• A seamless mix of influencer marketing and AI UGC targeting younger audiences.

Key takeaway: Keep it simple, catchy, and meme-friendly.

3. Amul – Topical Billboard Ads

3.1. The Legendary Consistency

Amul’s topical billboards are arguably the most iconic advertisement moments in Indian marketing. With witty, pun-filled headlines and instant reactions to current events, they’ve been running since 1966.

Fact: Amul releases over 100 unique billboard creatives every year, responding to trending topics within hours.

3.2. Why It’s Still Viral

• Hyperlocal yet globally relevant humor.
• Quick creative turnaround.
• Recognizable mascot design that’s stayed consistent for decades.

Key takeaway: A consistent format builds long-term brand equity.

4. Tanishq – “Ekatvam” Campaign

4.1. The Bold Move

Tanishq’s 2020 “Ekatvam” ad celebrated interfaith harmony through a wedding scene. While it faced backlash from certain groups, it also sparked a huge wave of support, making it one of the most-discussed viral ad shoot case studies.

Fact: Despite temporary ad withdrawal, Tanishq reported a 17% increase in online engagement during the period.

4.2. Lessons in Brand Positioning

• Courage in storytelling can strengthen your brand identity.
• Even controversial ads can drive strong brand recall.
• Authenticity matters more than playing safe.

Key takeaway: Take stands that align with your brand values, even if risky.

5. Nike – “You Can’t Stop Us” Global Campaign

5.1. The Cinematic Brilliance

Nike’s split-screen video featuring athletes from different sports, backgrounds, and countries set a new bar for editing and creativity.

Fact: The video hit 57 million views in its first week on YouTube, making it one of the most award-winning brand ads in recent memory.

5.2. Why It’s a Masterclass

• Flawless editing and high emotional impact.
• Diversity and inclusion front and center.
• Global message with local resonance in each market.

Key takeaway: Universal emotions work across borders.

What Brands Can Learn from the 5 Ad Shoot Case Studies That Went Viral

1. Leverage nostalgia without repeating the past.
2. Use simplicity to boost memorability.
3. Stay consistent with brand voice.
4. Be courageous in storytelling.
5. Think global, act local for wider reach.

About Hobo.Video

Hobo.Video is India’s leading AI-powered influencer marketing and UGC company. With over 2.25 million creators, it offers end-to-end campaign management designed for brand growth. The platform combines AI and human strategy for maximum ROI.

Services include:

• Influencer marketing
• UGC content creation
• Celebrity endorsements
• Product feedback and testing
• Marketplace and seller reputation management
• Regional and niche influencer campaigns

Trusted by top brands like Himalaya, Wipro, Symphony, Baidyanath, and the Good Glamm Group.

Call to Action:
If you want your next ad campaign to trend just like these 5 Ad Shoot Case Studies That Went Viral, partner with Hobo.Video — where creativity meets measurable results.

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