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Prada’s Kolhapuri Chappal Inspiration.
Imagine a pair of handcrafted leather sandals, their intricate designs whispering stories of centuries-old craftsmanship from the heart of Maharashtra, India. These are Kolhapuri chappals, a symbol of cultural pride and artisanal skill, worn by generations and celebrated for their simplicity and elegance. Recently, these iconic sandals stepped into the global spotlight when luxury fashion giant Prada showcased a strikingly similar design in its Spring/Summer 2026 men’s collection at Milan Fashion Week. However, the initial lack of acknowledgment sparked a wave of criticism in India, prompting a broader conversation about cultural respect, heritage, and the responsibilities of global brands. This blog dives into the journey of Kolhapuri chappals, Prada’s response to the backlash, and the deeper significance of honoring traditional craftsmanship in today’s fashion world.
The Timeless Charm of Kolhapuri Chappals
Kolhapuri chappals are more than just footwear; they’re a legacy. Originating in the city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, these leather sandals are handcrafted by skilled artisans using techniques passed down through generations. Known for their minimalist yet elegant design, featuring a distinctive toe-strap and sturdy leather sole, they’ve been a staple in Indian wardrobes for centuries. Their fame grew even more in the 1970s, thanks to their appearance in a popular Amitabh Bachchan film, cementing their status as a cultural icon.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Kolhapuri chappals carry deep cultural and economic weight. They represent the livelihoods of thousands of artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka, many of whom belong to families that have perfected this craft over decades. In 2019, the Indian government recognized their unique heritage by granting them Geographical Indication (GI) status, a mark of authenticity that ties the sandals to their place of origin and protects their cultural significance.
Prada’s Milan Moment: Inspiration or Oversight?
At Milan Fashion Week, Prada unveiled its Spring/Summer 2026 men’s collection, featuring sandals that bore an unmistakable resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals. The sleek leather designs, with their open-toe style and artisanal vibe, caught the eye of fashion enthusiasts worldwide—but also raised eyebrows in India. The sandals were presented simply as “leather sandals,” with no mention of their Indian inspiration. This omission sparked accusations of cultural appropriation from artisans, officials, and cultural advocates in India, who felt the brand had overlooked the heritage and craftsmanship behind the iconic footwear.
The Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (MACCIA) was quick to respond. In a letter to Prada, MACCIA president Lalit Gandhi expressed disappointment, noting that Kolhapuri chappals are not just a product but a symbol of regional identity and economic sustenance for countless artisans. He urged Prada to acknowledge the inspiration and consider ways to support the communities that have preserved this craft for generations.
Prada’s Response: A Step Toward Accountability
Facing mounting criticism, Prada addressed the issue through a letter from Lorenzo Bertelli, the brand’s head of corporate social responsibility. Bertelli acknowledged that the sandals in the Milan show were indeed inspired by India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals, emphasizing the brand’s respect for their centuries-old heritage. He clarified that the designs are still in the early stages of development and not yet confirmed for production or commercialization. This openness was a significant step, signaling Prada’s willingness to engage in a dialogue about cultural sensitivity.
Bertelli’s letter went further, expressing Prada’s commitment to responsible design practices and fostering meaningful exchanges with Indian artisan communities. He extended an invitation for further discussions, suggesting that the brand is open to collaboration and ensuring that the cultural significance of Kolhapuri chappals is respected. This response marked a shift from defensiveness to dialogue, offering hope for a more inclusive approach to global fashion.
The Bigger Picture: Cultural Heritage in Global Fashion
The Prada-Kolhapuri controversy isn’t just about a pair of sandals; it’s a reflection of a larger conversation in the fashion industry. As global brands draw inspiration from diverse cultures, questions arise about how to honor the origins of those designs. Kolhapuri chappals, with their GI status and deep-rooted cultural significance, are a perfect example of why acknowledgment matters. Failing to credit the artisans or communities behind traditional crafts risks erasing their contributions and commodifying their heritage.
In India, the backlash was led not only by organizations like MACCIA but also by political figures. BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik, alongside a delegation of Kolhapuri chappal artisans, met with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to advocate for stronger protections for the footwear’s GI rights. Their efforts underscored the need for global brands to recognize the economic and cultural stakes tied to traditional crafts.
A Path Forward: Collaboration and Respect
Prada’s response opens the door to a more collaborative future. By expressing interest in engaging with Indian artisans, the brand has an opportunity to set a precedent for ethical fashion. Imagine a world where global fashion houses partner with local artisans, not just as sources of inspiration but as valued contributors. Such collaborations could involve fair compensation, skill-sharing, or even co-branded collections that celebrate the artisans’ expertise while bringingି
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bringing their work to a global stage.
The call for collaboration also raises exciting possibilities. Could Prada work with Kolhapuri artisans to create authentic, credited designs? Could the brand support initiatives to preserve and promote this traditional craft? These questions point to a future where cultural exchange in fashion is rooted in mutual respect and shared benefits.
Why This Matters: Preserving Artisanal Legacy
The story of Prada and Kolhapuri chappals is a reminder of the power of cultural heritage in shaping identity. For the artisans of Maharashtra and Karnataka, these sandals are more than a craft—they’re a way of life. Their work sustains families, preserves traditions, and carries the spirit of a region. When global brands draw from such traditions, they have a responsibility to amplify, not overshadow, the voices of those who created them.
Prada’s acknowledgment is a step in the right direction, but the conversation doesn’t end here. It’s a call to action for the fashion industry to prioritize ethical practices, from transparent sourcing to meaningful partnerships. For consumers, it’s a chance to reflect on the stories behind the products we admire and advocate for the artisans who bring them to life.
As the fashion world continues to globalize, the Kolhapuri chappal controversy serves as a lesson in balance—celebrating inspiration while honoring its roots. The dialogue between Prada and India’s artisans could pave the way for a more inclusive, respectful approach to fashion, where every stitch and strap tells a story of shared humanity.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is based on publicly reported events and statements as of June 28, 2025.
Source: Press Trust of India and related public correspondence.
