Once Upon A Pandemic
Retelling timeless tales to deliver timely messages.
The Challenge
When COVID-19 hit, fear spread faster than the virus. People knew the risks, but constant warnings had numbed them. The world didn’t need more panic, it needed perspective. Federal Bank posed one question: how to remind people to act responsibly without adding to the exhaustion and negativity of pandemic messaging.
The Pop-Take
Instead of fear, we turned to folklore. Drawing from the timeless Pancha Tantra, we reimagined the classic fables for the COVID era. Each story carried a simple message: ‘Don’t travel in groups’, ‘Stay home, stay safe’, ‘Don’t spread fake news’. Gentle humour replaced alarm, and familiar stories became unlikely pandemic lessons.
The Result
The campaign struck a chord across audiences. People shared the stories widely, smiling while learning. Engagement soared and Federal Bank’s voice stood out amid the noise – calm, credible and compassionate. Without shouting or shaming, Pancha Tantras to Beat COVID-19 reminded everyone that old tales can still protect new worlds.