Archive · 2 Aug 2025
Prada's Design Faces Criticism Over Kolhapuri Chappal Similarity
Kolhapuri chappals are handcrafted Indian sandals with an 800-year history.
When Prada released a similar design, it sparked controversy because the original artisans felt their work was being copied and their culture was being appropriated.
The artisans were shocked by Prada's high prices.
They are asking for compensation for their craft and culture.
Prada's Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection featured sandals similar to Kolhapuri chappals.
Artisans from Kolhapur, India, expressed shock and concern over the design and high price point.
The Kolhapuri chappal industry supports one lakh workers across Maharashtra and Karnataka.
The Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce is pushing for reparations from Prada.
Kolhapuri chappals have a history dating back to the 12th century.
- Who
- Prada, Kolhapuri chappal artisans, Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce.
- What
- Controversy surrounding Prada's design similar to Kolhapuri chappals.
- When
- Following Prada's Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection in June.
- Where
- Maharashtra and Karnataka, India.
- Why
- Concerns of cultural misappropriation and economic impact on the Kolhapuri chappal industry.
Artisans and Corporations' Position
Prada's Actions
Design Similarity
Artisans and Corporations' Position
N/A
Prada's Actions
Prada's design of sandals similar to Kolhapuri chappals.
Cultural Appropriation
Artisans and Corporations' Position
N/A
Prada's Actions
Alleged inspiration of the Kolhapuri design without proper attribution.
Economic Impact
Artisans and Corporations' Position
N/A
Prada's Actions
The high price point of Prada's sandals compared to the artisans' earnings.
- Footwear
- Kolhapuri chappals
- Origin
- 12th-century India
- GI Tag
- Awarded in 2019
- Price Comparison
- Prada - approx. ₹1.20 lakh, Artisans - under ₹1,000
- Industry Workers
- Approx. 1 lakh
Sources
Kolhapuri Chappals Vs Prada: Maharashtra & Karnataka Corporations Claim GI Tag Rights
Only LIDCOM, LIDKAR hold legal ownership of Kolhapuri chappal GI tag, say state corporations