HMT’s Independence Day special edition watches sell out in Bengaluru in a day

On August 15, 2026, HMT Limited, a public sector unit based in Bengaluru, experienced an overwhelming demand for their special edition watches launched to commemorate Independence Day. The launch resulted in intense interest among locals, leading to long queues forming in front of the company's three outlets in the city. HMT Chairman and Managing Director N Ramesh Kumar informed The Indian Express that they had manufactured approximately 1,750 units of these special edition watches and that all six models were sold out within a single day.

He also mentioned that the 'Gandaberunda' watch, featuring Kannada text and the official state emblem, was particularly popular. Beyond the special edition watches, Kumar noted that the long queues extended beyond the immediate area, with people from Whitefield, located around 30 kilometers away, lining up to purchase the watches.

Each of the watches was priced between Rs 2,000 and Rs 10,000. Videos showcasing the length of the queues were widely shared on social media platforms, highlighting the popularity of the Gandaberunda model. Union Minister for Heavy Industry and Steel H D Kumaraswamy expressed his happiness upon witnessing the extensive queues, stating that they served as a testament to the enduring popularity and legacy of HMT within the hearts of the people.