Apple’s first flagship store gets warm welcome at BKC

Some, such as engineering dropout Akshay Sharma, were there to catch a glimpse of the CEO of Apple, Tim Cook, who inaugurated the store earlier in the day. It was Sharma who brought the large bouquet in a bid to catch the attention of Cook, as he hoped to pitch some start-up ideas, or pitch himself as a potential employee.

Others, such as 23-year-old graphic designer Nidhi Gharat, were there to purchase an Apple product. Many others were there to explore the whole range of products, from iPhone 14 to Mac, iPad, AirPods, Apple Watch, Apple TV, and accessories like AirTag up close, without being asked if they were buying anything.

Designed by London-based architectural firm Foster + Partners, the unique geometry of the store, the minimalist yet opulent design approach, and the stainless steel staircase connecting the ground level and the cantilevered mezzanine, all got their due attention – especially by visitors and content creators who all wanted a selfie at this staircase – but without taking away the focus from Apple products.

There was space for everything, for checking out products to configuring them as well as reaching out to Apple experts in case one is transitioning from a non-Apple device, and struggling in the process.

The store also has a corner featuring a small sitting area and a large screen dedicated to the ‘Today at Apple’ series, which will see creators conducting sessions. For the inaugural day, it had Delhi-based multi-media artist duo Jiten Thukral and Sumir Tagra, who had put together a series called ‘Mumbai Rising’.

“We wanted to classify the city in different emotions, from quiet to rain and dream,” Tagra told The Indian Express, adding that the interactive artwork, which took them about six months to make, has about 1,000 words and 500 pictures, allowing each person to create personalised art. Coming up next are sessions with illustrators, photographers and designers.

Making the whole festive vibe merrier was the decision to invite singers and performers, who put together an hours-long act right at the exit point of the store, and distributing cupcakes.