Actor R Madhavan was conferred the Padma Shri on Tuesday for his significant contribution to Indian cinema, but at the ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan the spotlight did not rest on the award alone. As he received the honour from President Droupadi Murmu, his overall look was striking, yet it was the watch on his wrist that pulled everyone's gaze. This was no ordinary timepiece. It was Titan's limited-edition Jalsa watch, crafted under the Nebula range and counted among the most special and expensive watches in the world.
All eyes on the watch at the ceremony
The Jalsa watch Madhavan wore while accepting the Padma Shri exists in only 10 units across the globe. That alone makes it an extraordinarily exclusive timepiece, and wearing one is a statement in itself. The moment it appeared on his wrist, watch enthusiasts began buzzing about it.
Why the Jalsa is so special
Jalsa is a premium and remarkably beautiful luxury watch from Titan. It was created under Titan Nebula to mark 225 years of Jaipur's famous Hawa Mahal, which is why its design carries clear echoes of Jaipur's royal heritage and the Hawa Mahal itself.
Its price is enough to leave anyone stunned. For that amount, one could buy a house. The watch is said to cost around Rs 40.5 lakh, making it the most expensive watch Titan has ever made.
What makes this timepiece stand out
- Only 10 pieces of the Jalsa watch have been made worldwide, which makes it even more exclusive.
- The case is crafted from 18 carat rose gold.
- The dial features a traditional miniature painting technique done entirely by hand, created by Padma Shri artist Shakir Ali, reflecting Jaipur's royal legacy and the Hawa Mahal.
- The watch uses several precious stones and intricate artistic design, including a red agate stone, sapphire crystal and fine art detailing that add to its beauty.
- The design draws inspiration from Indian heritage, Indian art and craftsmanship.
- It carries an in-house flying tourbillon movement developed by Titan. The tourbillon is regarded as one of the most complex and prestigious techniques in watchmaking.
What R Madhavan said on receiving the Padma Shri
Speaking after the honour, R Madhavan said, ‘I accept the Padma Shri with deep gratitude and humility. This recognition is beyond my dreams, and I receive it on behalf of my entire family. Their constant support and belief have given me the greatest strength. This honour has been made possible only by the blessings of my mentors, the goodwill of my well-wishers, the love and encouragement of the public and, above all, the grace of the Almighty. Each of them has played an invaluable role in shaping my journey and bringing me to this point.’
