Bata shows how to step into success with Kartik Aaryan's inspiring journey

Bata India launched a special collection ahead of the festivities, rooted in artisanal craftsmanship and high fashion design details with a film that spotlights its brand ambassador, Kartik Aaryan. The festive campaign, ‘Celebrate every step’ is a chapter of the global brand’s ‘Make your way’ campaign that celebrates stories of grit and success for those who stride to shine.

Joining Aaryan in this journey, are other new-age icons who have carved their own path to success—designer and entrepreneur Masaba Gupta who has constantly challenged status quo and continues to reinvent herself through unseen paths. The campaign also celebrates singer, songwriter and now-actress and musician Lisa Mishra, Urooj Ashfaq who took her comedy to a global platform and Alaya F who shined bright even in unconventional roles, breaking stereotypes. By bringing them together, Bata India aims to applaud those who break the glass ceiling and truly embody the spirit of ‘Make your way’, the brand’s global campaign for its 130th anniversary.

The ad captures Aaryan’s journey of becoming a Bollywood sensation. In the film, he is seen celebrating all the roles he has played in his life, even the setbacks that helped him come back stronger inspiring individuals to trust their journey and celebrate every step.

Deepika Deepti, head of marketing at Bata India, said, “At the heart of 'Celebrate every step' is an insight—today's India is about individuals who dare to change their trajectories and make their own way. The campaign shines a spotlight on the inspiring journeys of Aaryan and other youth icons, with each story resonating with the ambition of today’s new age of consumers.”  

Talking about the campaign, Aaryan said, “As an actor, I have played many roles but this campaign inspired me to pause and celebrate the biggest role I have ever played—me! This festive season is all about expressing yourself, standing out, and looking fabulous while you're at it. Time to step into the celebrations, both inside and out, with style!”

Udayan Chakravarty, national creative director, FCB India said, “The storytelling in the video takes the form of a dramatised mixed media biography instead of a conventional ad—leaning heavily into Aaryan’s life, retrieving and drawing heavily from old photographs, archival footage and personal anecdotes. Through, ‘Celebrate every step’, we have tried to narrate Aaryan’s story of grit that only Bata has the right to tell—having been there with him, every step of his way.”

Campaign’s take:

Bata's latest campaign with Kartik Aaryan dives deep into his journey from small-town boy to Bollywood star, showcasing grit, perseverance, and style. The festive collection, part of their global ‘Make Your Way’ initiative, highlights Aaryan’s struggles and triumphs, encouraging everyone to celebrate their personal victories.

By blending old photographs, anecdotes, and mixed media, the campaign feels more like a heartfelt biography than a typical ad. Alongside icons like Masaba Gupta, Lisa Mishra, Urooj Ashfaq, and Alaya F, Bata celebrates those who break barriers and make their own way, embodying their 130-year legacy with bold, inspiring storytelling.