Pepper Awards is marking its 20th edition by opening its 2026 Call for Entries to agencies, brands and creative professionals across India for the first time.
The announcement was made at a press meet in Kochi, with Josy Paul, Chairman and CCO of BBDO India, as chief guest and Prathap Suthan, Co-founder and CCO of Bang in the Middle, as guest of honour.
Launched in 2006 to recognise creative excellence in South India, Pepper Awards has evolved into a respected platform within the creative industry. Its milestone 2026 edition will now showcase work from across the country.
The awards will feature a jury comprising leading creative professionals from different parts of India. Josy Paul, who served as the first Jury Chairman when the awards launched, returned for the 20th edition to launch the Call for Entries alongside Suthan.
Pepper Awards expects more than 1,000 entries this year, making the 2026 edition one of its most competitive yet.
According to P. K. Natesh, Chairman of Pepper Awards 2026, the nationwide expansion and diverse jury are expected to make this milestone edition a significant celebration of creativity.
With its first pan-India entry call, Pepper Awards is expanding its canvas beyond its South Indian roots, creating a larger stage for agencies, brands and creative talent to showcase standout work.
