Bengaluru, Aug. 29 -- Global apparel retailer UNIQLO today opened its first-ever store in Bengaluru at Orion Mall, Brigade Gateway, with former India cricket captain Rahul Dravid joining the launch celebrations.

Spread over 9,012 sq ft, the outlet marks UNIQLO's 17th store in India and its first in South India. Dravid, a local Bengalurean, participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, drawing a crowd of fans and customers.

"Today marks a significant milestone as we enter South India with the launch of our first store in Bengaluru," Kenji Inoue, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer, UNIQLO India, said. "This debut has been long awaited, and we are truly encouraged by the warm and positive response from our customers in Bengalur...