The 21-Hour Wait: Meet the Man Who Was First in Line for Apple’s Mumbai Store

For many, a new iPhone is just a phone. But for 26-year-old Dhiren Kumar, the opening of Apple’s first official store in Mumbai was a momentous occasion, a pilgrimage he was willing to undertake with unwavering dedication. In a crowd of thousands, Dhiren stood out—not just for his infectious enthusiasm but for the sheer commitment he displayed. He had waited an incredible 21 hours outside the store, a feat that not only made him the first customer inside but also earned him the admiration of onlookers and the internet alike, with many exclaiming, “Isko Padma Shri milna chahiye!” (He should get the Padma Shri!).

The morning of the grand opening saw a sea of people gathered outside the store, the air buzzing with excitement. But long before the first rays of sunlight hit the glass facade, Dhiren was already there, having arrived at 6 a.m. the previous day. He came prepared with a backpack, a water bottle, and an unshakeable resolve. While others trickled in and the queue grew, Dhiren held his ground, a testament to his passion for the brand he deeply admires.

His story quickly spread through the crowd and onto social media. Videos and photos of Dhiren, the lone figure at the head of the line, went viral. Netizens were captivated by his dedication, with comments flooding in praising his perseverance and sense of purpose. Some compared him to a devoted fan at a rock concert, others to a true pioneer. The sentiment “Isko Padma Shri milna chahiye!” became a popular refrain, a humorous yet heartfelt acknowledgment of his epic wait. The Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, is typically reserved for those who have made significant contributions in various fields. Applying it to Dhiren’s feat highlighted the almost heroic nature of his commitment in the eyes of the public.

When the doors finally opened, Dhiren was greeted by Apple CEO Tim Cook himself, a moment that must have felt like the ultimate reward for his long wait. As he stepped inside the store, he wasn’t just a customer; he was the embodiment of a new era for Apple in India, a super-fan whose passion symbolized the brand’s fervent following in the country. His journey—from a quiet wait on the pavement to a viral sensation—serves as a reminder that for some, the connection to a brand goes far beyond a simple purchase. It’s a feeling, a community, and for Dhiren Kumar, something worth waiting an entire day for.