"I’m very much a storyteller at heart": Ayushmann Khurrana to HELLO! India on time, craft and memory

Even in a world driven by instant updates and digital convenience, a classic wristwatch continues to hold a quiet kind of power that's rooted in memory and craftsmanship. For Ayushmann Khurrana, watches are far more than accessories; they are markers of personal milestones and silent storytellers of life’s defining moments. As he partners with Just In Time, the actor speaks to HELLO! India about authenticity, emotional connections, and why the charm of a timeless watch can never be replaced by a smartphone.

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HELLO! India: What drew you to partner with Just In Time at this point in your journey?

Ayushmann Khurrana: It always comes down to timing. The association matters, but only if it feels right in the moment. With Just In Time, the connection felt organic, almost as if it was meant to be. I’ve grown to be very selective about the brands I partner with; authenticity matters to me. Just In Time celebrates the kind of craftsmanship and attention to detail that I personally value, and that’s why this partnership feels like a reflection of where I am right now.

HELLO! India: How would you describe your relationship with watches: are you more of a collector, a storyteller, or a minimalist?

Ayushmann Khurrana: I’m very much a storyteller at heart. For me, watches aren’t just objects; they’re markers of significant moments. I never collect just for the sake of it; each piece I own has a story, a memory, or a lesson attached. These watches quietly journey with me, collecting my memories as I move through different phases of life.

HELLO! India: In an age of smartphones, what keeps the charm of a classic wristwatch alive for you?

Ayushmann Khurrana: A wristwatch is much more than a tool for telling time. It’s a rare symbol of permanence in a world that’s always chasing the next big thing. I love how a watch grows with you, its character deepens, its story becomes richer. There’s an emotional intimacy to a classic watch that no digital gadget can ever replicate.

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HELLO! India: Watches are often gifted for milestones. What’s the most meaningful watch you’ve given or received?

Ayushmann Khurrana: The most special watches are always tied to emotion. One of my most cherished pieces was gifted to me by someone very close, early in my journey. It wasn’t just about the watch; it was about the bond, the memory, and what it stood for at that point in my life. Those are the timepieces you treasure forever.

HELLO! India: How do you see watch culture evolving in India, especially with younger audiences?

Ayushmann Khurrana: Younger audiences today are embracing craftsmanship and individuality like never before. They’re curious, discerning, and eager to find meaning in what they wear. Watches aren’t just accessories anymore; they’re statements of identity and style. It’s heartening to see people investing in timepieces that reflect their stories, not just what’s trending.

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