Baccarat has strengthened its long-standing relationship with India by opening a flagship boutique at The Chanakya in New Delhi. Known for its crystal creations since 1764, the French maison’s new space offers visitors a closer view of its chandeliers, home décor, and glassware, while marking a new chapter in its history with the country.
The connection between Baccarat and India dates back to 1886, when the brand opened a retail branch in Bombay. Over the years, its crystal pieces found their way into royal palaces, with commissions from the Maharajas of Kapurthala, Indore, Bikaner, and Baroda. Indian culture also influenced Baccarat’s collections, inspiring designs such as the Ferrières furniture line and the Elephant Liquor Cabinet, which was first presented at the 1878 Paris World Fair.
Laurence Nicolas, CEO of Baccarat, expressed the significance of this opening, saying, “Following Baccarat’s 260th anniversary, this new chapter in India marks a significant milestone in our journey. The flagship will be an immersion into Baccarat’s art de vivre, delivering a harmonious and memorable experience for our guests.” The new boutique aims to bring Baccarat closer to its Indian clientele, offering a space to appreciate the brand’s craftsmanship and legacy.
To mark the occasion, Baccarat has placed a grand 84-light Zénith chandelier in clear and red crystal on display at the boutique, located on the ground floor of The Chanakya. The chandelier, which merges traditional craftsmanship with modern elegance, is a striking example of Baccarat’s ability to create masterpieces that combine beauty with technical precision. The chandelier’s intricate facets and vibrant colors reflect Baccarat’s enduring commitment to creating pieces that captivate and inspire, serving as a focal point for visitors to appreciate the brand’s heritage and contemporary designs.
Mandeep Singh, Director at Lux Abode, Baccarat’s partner in India, shared his excitement about the opening: “Baccarat’s connection with India goes back to 1860 when it set up a retail branch in Bombay and quickly earned a following among Indian connoisseurs of fine craftsmanship. So, bringing the brand here in 2025 felt less like a launch and more like a homecoming. Baccarat’s legacy of timeless beauty and meticulous artistry aligns beautifully with India’s own appreciation for heritage and detail…For us at Lux Abode, this wasn’t just about introducing a brand, it was about reintroducing something iconic to an audience that is ready for it.”
This partnership highlights the growing appreciation for Baccarat’s creations in India, a market that continues to embrace luxury and design excellence.
The boutique offers more than just products; it provides an immersive experience into Baccarat’s universe, with an emphasis on the maison’s rich history and contemporary designs. The space itself is designed to reflect Baccarat’s signature style, featuring bold red walls created by fusing clear crystal and 24-carat gold, as well as a black-and-white checkerboard floor. The layout of the boutique echoes Baccarat’s iconic chandelier designs, with octagonal niches that reference the shape of the Maison’s famous pendants. The use of light is central to the experience, with chandeliers, mirrors, and lacquered panels reflecting and amplifying the radiance of Baccarat’s crystal creations.
Talking about the brand’s storied legacy and its definitive visual language, Mr. Singh said, “With a legacy spanning over 260 years, bringing Baccarat’s distinct aura to India was certainly a responsibility for us at Lux Abode. But it was never about replicating something – it was about creating an experience that feels true to Baccarat’s essence while resonating with India’s deep love for craftsmanship and celebration. We focused on staying authentic to the brand’s spirit and aligning it with the cultural values that already exist here. When that balance is right, the aura follows naturally.”
The boutique also showcases a selection of pieces that demonstrate Baccarat’s illustrious work. Notable collections include Philippe Starck’s “Talleyrand” series, Virgil Abloh’s “Crystal Clear” line, and Arik Levy’s “Tuile de Cristal,” alongside the brand’s 260th anniversary collection, including Marcel Wanders’ “New Antique.” One of the most iconic pieces displayed is the Harcourt glass, first commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III. This piece has remained a symbol of Baccarat’s timeless appeal and was most recently featured in the popular Netflix series Emily in Paris.
While the well-versed luxury connoisseurs in India may already know about the brand, the trend-setting Gen Z might prove to be a challenge to attract. However, Mr. Singh is upbeat about it: “Gen Z’s strong inclination towards authenticity aligns perfectly with Baccarat’s enduring legacy. Our India launch is an exciting chance to introduce them to 260 years of exceptional craftsmanship. Experiencing the design and quality firsthand will be the key. It represents a form of distinction that feels effortless and genuine, qualities that deeply resonate with this generation.”
The opening of the New Delhi flagship marks a pivotal moment in Baccarat’s expansion in India, highlighting the brand’s continued commitment to connecting with design enthusiasts and collectors across the country. With another boutique on the horizon, the maison is set to continue offering its unique vision of elegance and craftsmanship to the Indian market. Mr. Singh spills some beans on the next new store: “Building upon our presence at The Chanakya, our upcoming Baccarat flagship will open in Delhi’s MG Road. This new space will transcend traditional retail, becoming a vibrant hub for private dining experiences, innovative artistic collaborations, curated showcases and artist interactions. Our ambition is to ensure that the Baccarat art of living meets the sophisticated expectations of the Indian market.”
As Baccarat reaffirms its interest in India, this new boutique promises to elevate the appreciation of the brand’s timeless creations and its vision for modern living.