The store is structured to reflect India’s artisanal history through a combination of jewellery and sculptural displays, and marks a shift in the brand’s physical presence by combining retail and exhibition
New Delhi: Handcrafted silver jewellery brand Apala by Sumit has just launched its flagship jewellery boutique at Mehrauli in New Delhi, presenting a space designed as a living museum. Located in a historically significant neighbourhood, close to the Qutub Minar, the store is structured to reflect India’s artisanal history through a combination of jewellery and sculptural displays.
This new store marks a shift in the brand’s physical presence by combining retail and exhibition. The Mehrauli location displays the label’s signature handcrafted silver jewellery and introduces sculptural artworks by founder and creative director Sumit Sawhney. This follows the brand’s earlier stores in Hauz Khas Village and DLF Galleria.
The interior of the boutique takes inspiration from the Qutub Minar. The use of antique brass items, vintage books and aged objects provides a contextual setting for the jewellery and design pieces on display.
At the centre of the store’s development is a focus on preservation heritage through design. Commenting on it, Sumit Sawhney said, “The Mehrauli flagship is more than just a store; it’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to preserving and celebrating India’s rich artistic heritage. It is a world where silver is transformed into wearable art, where history comes alive, and where every piece tells a story.”
Sawhney, who trained at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and Jewellery Design and Technology Institute (JDTI), applies traditional techniques such as Kundan setting and sculptural filigree to motifs from mythology and nature. His sculptural installations incorporate stones, brass and found vintage objects, furthering his approach to integrating craft with contemporary practice.
Apala by Sumit works in collaboration with artisans across India to ensure the continuation of traditional techniques in modern design environments. Earlier this year, the brand partnered with the Ministry of Culture under Project Aatman, which promotes Indian handicrafts, trains and empowers artisans, and fosters sustainable livelihoods. As part of this initiative, Apala’s work is showcased at the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Centre for Design (ABCD) at the Red Fort in Delhi—another milestone in its efforts to integrate heritage with design.
Established in 2006, Apala by Sumit has focused on using silver as a medium for design-led story-telling. The brand currently operates three stores located at Carma in Mehrauli and Hauz Khas Village in New Delhi, and DLF Galleria in Gurgaon.
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