Havas Mumbai awarded Print & Publishing Gold Lion at Cannes for “Ink Of Democracy”

Havas Mumbai has picked up Asia’s only Lion in the Print & Publishing Lions category for their “Ink Of Democracy” campaign. The already highly-awarded campaign secured a Gold Lion – one of only 4 Gold Lions awarded in the category.

Rooted in the symbolic power of electoral ink, Ink of Democracy, which won in the Print & Publishing category, was a visceral call to action for India’s citizens ahead of the general elections. By printing The Times of India’s editorial page entirely in purple – the very colour used to mark fingers of those who vote – the campaign served as a silent yet powerful protest against voter apathy. No headlines. No logos. Just a stark reminder of the voices that were never heard.

Rana Barua, Group CEO, Havas India, South East Asia and North Asia, said, “Winning a Cannes Lions for Ink of Democracy is a moment of immense pride—for the work, the people behind it, and what it stands for. At our core, we’ve always believed in the power of creativity. We truly believe it has the power to shape conversations and spark change.

“I’m incredibly proud of Anu, Ravinder, Soham and our team that brought this idea to life. Also, a huge shoutout to Team TOI, Joji, and our global team for their belief in the idea and all the support. Here’s to a team that continues to raise the bar, pushing boundaries with integrity, heart, and fearless creativity.”

Anupama Ramaswamy, Joint MD & Chief Creative Officer, Havas Creative India added, “From the moment we thought of Ink of Democracy, I knew in my gut this idea needed to be made and needed to be seen by the world. It wasn’t loud or flashy, but it had truth, purpose, and heart. One thing I held onto was patience. And a quiet tenacity to see it through, no matter how long it took.

“What makes this Cannes Lions win truly special is my young team that brought it to life—Soham, Ravinder, and Annie—who poured everything into it. They carried the idea with courage and craft, and I couldn’t be prouder. A big thank you to Rana and the global team at Havas for believing in the work and helping us take it beyond borders. This is a shared win, and a reminder of what’s possible when we trust our instincts and support one another.”

The Print & Publishing Lions, which honour creativity in circulation, received 769 entries. This year only 23 Lions have been awarded in the Print & Publishing category. 4 Gold were handed out along with 8 Silver and 10 Bronze Lions.

The Grand Prix award went to Serviceplan Munich for Penny “Price Packs”. The campaign saw PENNY launch bold, price-focused packaging designed to leverage its reputation for affordability, focusing its packaging entirely on price.

DOWNLOAD THE WINNERS LIST HERE

Print & Publishing Jury President Icaro Doria, President and Chief Creative Officer, DM9, Brazil, said: “Price Packs is print, is publishing, is packaging and is a point of view! A massive brand statement and commitment to their customers printed on paper for people to see, hold and take it home. We were all deeply impressed with the simplicity, the elegance, the courage and, well, the prices too!”