Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has recently stirred up a buzz on social media with his latest Instagram post showcasing a luxurious limited-edition watch. The watch, known as the Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi Titanium Edition 2, is priced at an astonishing ₹34 lakh and was gifted to him by his mother, Salma Khan. This eye-catching timepiece features intricate engravings celebrating the cultural and historical significance of the Ram Janmabhoomi, making it a significant addition to Khan's collection of luxury watches.
On March 27, 2025, Salman Khan shared pictures of himself wearing the watch while promoting his upcoming film, Sikandar, which is set to hit theaters on March 30, 2025. In the post, he wore a stylish outfit, complemented by the striking gold dial and orange strap of the watch, along with the caption, "See you in theatres on 30th March!" This promotional effort has not only highlighted his film but also brought attention to the exquisite craftsmanship of the timepiece he wore.
The Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi watch is a product of luxury brand Jacob & Co. and is part of a limited edition with only 49 pieces available worldwide. The watch features engravings that honor the Ram Janmabhoomi site, including a detailed relief of the Ayodhya temple on the dial. The bezel and dial also carry sacred inscriptions of Hindu gods, adding to its cultural significance. The design includes a temple motif at 9 o'clock and a silhouette of Lord Ram with Lord Hanuman at 3 o'clock, while the sacred words "JAI SHRI RAM" are prominently engraved below the tourbillon at 6 o'clock.
Interestingly, the watch has also been previously spotted on other celebrities, including Abhishek Bachchan, who showcased a similar piece. The exclusivity and cultural significance of the watch have made it a topic of conversation among fans and collectors alike.
However, the unveiling of this luxurious timepiece has not come without controversy. A section of Salman Khan's fans has expressed their displeasure, interpreting his choice to wear the watch as a political gesture aimed at appeasing a particular faction. This has led to calls for a boycott of Sikandar, with some fans accusing the actor of compromising his previously established political honesty for the sake of his film's promotion. This backlash raises questions about the intersection of celebrity culture and political sentiment in contemporary India.
Despite the mixed reactions, many fans have shown support for Salman Khan, praising his inclusivity and the cultural homage represented by the watch. One fan commented, "When he could convincingly play a Hanuman Bhakt in Bajrangi Bhaijaan and win the masses' love, wearing this watch is hardly a big deal." Another fan remarked, "A new topic for outrage, but honestly, I’m happy to see this." These comments reflect a divide among fans regarding the implications of Khan's fashion choices.
As the release date for Sikandar approaches, the film has garnered attention not only for its star power but also for its themes and the controversies surrounding it. Directed by AR Murugadoss, the action drama features a strong cast, including Rashmika Mandanna, Sathyaraj, Prateik, and Kajal Aggarwal. The film has also received clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) with a UA 13+ rating, and its runtime is two hours, 15 minutes, and 46 seconds.
In addition to the Epic X Ram Janmabhoomi watch, Salman Khan has been associated with other luxury timepieces from Jacob & Co., including the limited-edition “The World Is Yours” watch, which is priced at ₹29 lakh. This watch showcases a unique design that celebrates global connections, featuring a three-dimensional dial resembling a globe, and is aimed at global travelers.
The world of luxury watches has long been intertwined with celebrity culture, and Salman Khan's recent choice to flaunt the Ram Janmabhoomi watch is a testament to this relationship. The watch not only serves as a status symbol but also as a piece of art that reflects India's rich cultural history.
As the discussions surrounding the watch continue, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact the release of Sikandar. With a lot riding on the film, especially given Khan's recent track record at the box office, the actor may need to navigate this turbulent landscape carefully to ensure a successful launch.
Ultimately, the intersection of fashion, culture, and politics in Bollywood often leads to intense scrutiny and debate. Salman Khan’s choice to wear the Ram Janmabhoomi watch has sparked conversations about identity, representation, and the responsibility of public figures in a politically charged environment. Whether this controversy will enhance or hinder the film's success remains an open question as fans eagerly await its release.
