Source TOI
Italian luxury fashion house Prada has announced a landmark collaboration with Indian artisans following widespread criticism over its use of designs resembling traditional Kolhapuri chappals — the iconic handcrafted leather footwear from western India.
The announcement comes after Prada faced backlash earlier this year for featuring sandals at its Spring/Summer 2026 Men’s Fashion Week in Milan that bore a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals, without initially acknowledging the source of inspiration. Photographs of the designs circulated widely on social media, triggering accusations of cultural appropriation and sparking outrage among artisans, craft bodies and the public in India.
Under the new initiative, Prada will work with skilled artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka — where genuine Kolhapuri chappals are traditionally made — to produce a limited-edition “Made in India” sandal collection. The project, developed in partnership with state-backed bodies such as Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation (LIDCOM) and Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation (LIDKAR), aims to combine authentic local craftsmanship with the Italian brand’s design and manufacturing expertise.
According to reports, the collection will consist of around 2,000 pairs priced at approximately ₹80,000–₹85,000 (about $930) each and will be available globally starting February 2026 through Prada’s 40 international stores and online platforms. The three-year partnership also includes artisan training programs in India and opportunities for selected craftsmen to attend short residencies at Prada’s Academy in Italy, aimed at preserving traditional skills and expanding market exposure for the artisans.
Prada’s decision followed months of engagement with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture (MACCIA) and direct dialogues with artisan representatives. Earlier this year, the luxury brand sent a team of senior executives to Kolhapur, where they met local artisans, learned about the intricate handcraft process, and pledged to ensure proper recognition of the craft’s heritage in future products.
The controversy also brought attention to broader concerns over cultural recognition and intellectual property rights. Kolhapuri chappals hold a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which legally identifies them as a product unique to a specific region — in this case, parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka — due to their traditional methods and cultural significance. Local artisan groups and some politicians had urged Prada to publicly credit the origin of the design and take steps to support the communities behind the craft.
In its latest statement, Prada said the collaboration underscores its commitment to “responsible design practices” and “cultural engagement” while highlighting India’s rich artisanal heritage on global fashion platforms.
The new partnership is being seen by many in the craft community as a positive step toward uplifting traditional artisanal livelihoods and fostering equitable participation in the global fashion economy.
