This Onam, Federal Bank redefined what a festive campaign could feel like — not with louder ads, but with deeper warmth. In a rare blend of immersive technology, AI-powered storytelling, and human connection, the Bank turned every branch manager into a digital storyteller — delivering heartfelt Onam wishes through phones, posters, and print. In celebration of Kerala’s biggest festival, Onam, Federal Bank in partnership with WPP’s fastest-growing company and the world leader in creative production, Hogarth Leveraged modern AI tools such as WPP Open and WPP Experience centres, along with technology partner, 8th Wall by Niantic, Federal Bank released one of the most heartfelt campaigns for the season. Not just this, the entire state of Kerala was enthralled by live performances of artists performing century old artforms and then in another quirky maveli series, the Bank showcased a fun take on how Maveli could use all the offers from Federal Bank for his journey (a story that forms the basis for celebration of Onam.) Here are the 3 unique ways that the Bank celebrated Onam this season.
Immersive tech meets AI
As customers scanned a simple QR code shared by their relationship managers or spotted on outdoor and in-branch creatives, they were greeted by an interactive, real-time Onam celebration: petals raining from above, a Kathakali dancer performing, and the nostalgic sound of the vallam kali trumpet. There were two types of print ads: one allows users to scan a QR code and experience the AI coming to life directly on the newspaper or physical collateral. The other type lets users scan the QR code and place the AI-powered experience in a location of their choice to enjoy the visuals.
