Shelf Life with Mid-day: Discover vintage vinyl records and rare first editions at this Mumbai bookstore

In the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, trends emerge to override the older, more established ways. Amidst the chase for the latest, there lies a quaint gem that promises to take you back on a journey through time. Bombay Book Cleanse, a unique thrift store founded by a Mumbai-based reader Sana Khan, is breathing new life into vintage vinyl records, rare first editions of classic books, and modified typewriters. With a mission to promote consumption with a conscience, this Mumbai-based bookstore is captivating the hearts of old souls and book enthusiasts alike.

The store is a physical and virtual haven for those seeking vintage treasures and literary gems. They go by the handle @bombaybookcleanse on Instagram and can be spotted at several pop-ups across the city. The curated collection at their includes pre-loved books, with their covers and pages aging gracefully with time. Among its collection are rare first editions, including a copy of ‘The Discovery of India' by Jawaharlal Nehru, from the pre-independence era published by The Signet Press in 1946, 'Other Side of the Coin' by Madan Gaur published in 1973, and ‘Complete works of Jane Austen' published in 1933. These literary relics provide a glimpse into the rich history of India's freedom struggle and help us understand the development of literature through eras.

But the offerings don't stop at books. Bombay Book Cleanse also caters to comic book aficionados with graded comics like Fantastic Four, Hulk, Avengers, and Superman. What's good is one can submit their books for sale and find genres of their taste. For those looking to embrace the nostalgia of typing in black and white, the store sells modified vintage typewriters in vibrant pop colors, adding a touch of whimsy to any writer's desk.

One of the highlights of this unique store is its impressive collection of vinyl records. From the soulful tunes of Elvis Presley to the electrifying guitar riffs of Eric Clapton, and from the legendary Rolling Stones' album "Black and Blue" to the infectious beats of ABBA and Santana, the store has a gold collection of vinyl that can transport music lovers to a different time and place. The warm sounds emanating from these vinyl records reverberate through any space, creating an ambiance that resonates with the soul.

The initiative of Bombay Book Cleanse goes beyond being a bookstore and a collection of vintage items. It is also a platform for social impact and giving back to the community. Sana Khan, the founder, emphasizes the importance of consuming in a restorative and sustainable pattern for a resilient future. Speaking about the store's origins, she says, "The growing popularity of thrifting lies not only in more people recognizing the importance of mindful consumption but also in the relative affordability of pre-loved books."

The philanthropic spirit of Bombay Book Cleanse is evident through its various initiatives. Sana Khan recalls the first-ever thrift during the pandemic in India, which began with a small "garage" sale in her own home. Unexpectedly, over 100 people arrived, drawn by the allure of thrifting. Wine flowed, laughter filled the air, and friendships were formed as people exchanged books and thoughts, and celebrated the joy of conscious consumption.

The funds raised from this event were donated to The Salvation Army Girls Home, a city-based organization providing support to underprivileged girls in India. It also facilitates amenities like accommodation, mess, and study hall for girls attending school and college.

Since then, Bombay Book Cleanse has continued its humanitarian endeavors. Through pop-up events held in Mumbai and locations like Goa, the store has raised funds for causes such as sponsoring Diwali hampers, annual day celebrations, and medical care for the girls at The Salvation Army.

In a world where fast fashion and disposable culture dominate, Bombay Book Cleanse is a refreshing oasis that encourages readers to avail and appreciate the value of vintage items and cyclical patterns of consumption. Not only the eclectic collection of books, and vinyl records but this Mumbai bookstore is also thrifting clothes to shape a stainable future.

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Sana Khan's passion for sustainability extends beyond literature and music. Recognizing the impact of the fashion industry on the environment, she established Bombay Closet Cleanse, a thrift store for clothing items. This additional venture offers designer pieces, celebrity wardrobes, and pre-loved festive and casual clothing. Embracing the concept of circular fashion, the store encourages customers to bring their own bags and reduce plastic waste.

But Bombay Book Cleanse continues to diversify its shelf life beyond just books and vinyl records. The store also features a range of photography books, guides on visual arts, and captivating coffee table books, allowing visitors to explore various aspects of art and culture.

In addition to its permanent location in Mumbai, Bombay Book Cleanse takes its treasures on the road with pop-up events. These events, held in popular hangout spots like ADAGIO in Bandra, bring the magic of vintage books and vinyl records to different corners of the city. The pop-up events also serve as an opportunity to showcase and sell rare first editions, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from far and wide.

The journey of Bombay Book Cleanse and Bombay Closet Cleanse has not been without challenges, particularly with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Sana Khan reflects on the difficulties faced during the 2021 lockdown when profitability seemed unattainable, let alone raising funds for charitable causes. However, she expresses gratitude for the kindness shown by people, including notable figures like Vir Das, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Malvika Sitlani, and Amita, who chose to donate their belongings to support the causes the stores believe in.

Through their unwavering dedication to conscious consumption, sustainable practices, and philanthropy, Bombay Book Cleanse and Bombay Closet Cleanse have become more than just stores. If you're an old soul yearning for the classics or a lover of vintage treasures, Bombay Book Cleanse is waiting to transport you to a bygone era. Step inside and embark on a journey through time, where the stories of the past come alive and intertwine with the present.

They have become symbols of hope, encouraging individuals to embrace a more mindful and compassionate approach to consumption.

As Sana Khan reflects on the impact her stores have made, she concludes, "It was then that I think I knew I'd do this for the rest of my life." With each vintage book sold, each vinyl record rediscovered, and each pre-loved clothing item cherished, Bombay Book Cleanse and Bombay Closet Cleanse continue to create a sustainable symbiotic relationship between readers, music lovers, and fashion enthusiasts. They invite us all to step into their world and rediscover the magic of the past in the present.

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