- By Surarika Das
- Sat, 28 Feb 2026 04:17 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde has addressed the growing online speculation regarding a watch she wore during recent public appearances, clarifying that the accessory is not a high-end luxury item.’ It's just a Rs 15-16-thousand-rupee watch’, added Tawde, when asked about the luxury wrist watch.
Following days of social media controversy suggesting she was sporting an extravagant brand, Tawde revealed that the watch was actually a modest birthday gift from her children. She explained that she was initially unaware of the brand and only after being repeatedly questioned did she consult her daughter, who confirmed it was a Michael Kors watch valued at approximately Rs 15,000 to Rs 16,000.
‘Only Interested In Serving People’
During a press briefing, the Mayor emphasised that she does not attach importance to brands, whether they involve sarees, watches, or decorative items. “I'm not interested in any brand--whether it's a watch, a saree, or any decorative item. I only know one thing: I want to serve the Mumbaikars. This is a very simple watch. My children gifted it to me on my birthday. I didn't even know what company it was from,” news agency ANI quoted Tawde as saying.
She stated that her primary focus remains on serving the residents of Mumbai rather than personal style. Tawde questioned why so much attention was being paid to her accessories, reiterating that the watch was a simple sentimental gift and not a statement of luxury.
Netizens React
The expense watch grabbed immense attention on social media. A user commented, “@grok What are prices of watches of brand titan or equivalent in Bharat which are normally used by middle class people??
While another questioned, “How come it is possible that a mayor doesn't know which brand of watch she is wearing?.A third user said, “This script is followed by politicians in their early phase then slowly everything changes”.
How Was The Controversy Sparked?
The controversy unfolded on the same day the Mayor chaired a critical meeting at the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation to discuss allegations of fake birth certificates being issued to undocumented immigrants. Despite the social media distraction, Tawde maintained that her administrative duties and public service are her top priorities. A senior BJP corporator from Ghatkopar, Tawde was elected as the Mayor of Mumbai unopposed on February 11.