Archive · 23 May 2025
Nordstrom's 'Indian Souvenir Bag' Sparks Cultural Appropriation Debate
A US store, Nordstrom, is selling a simple Indian cotton bag, called a 'jhola,' for $48.
This bag is typically used in India for carrying everyday items.
It is being sold as an 'Indian Souvenir Bag'.
People on social media are very surprised and critical of the high price, considering similar bags cost very little in India.
Many see this as a case of cultural appropriation, where a cultural item is repackaged and sold for profit, without understanding or respecting its origins.
Nordstrom is selling an Indian 'jhola' bag, labeled as an 'Indian Souvenir Bag' for $48.
The bag is made of cotton and features Hindi script.
The bags are similar to everyday bags used in India.
Social media users have expressed outrage over the price and perceived cultural appropriation.
The sale is seen as another example of Western rebranding of Indian cultural items.
- Who
- Nordstrom, Puebco, social media users, and general public.
- What
- Nordstrom is selling an Indian 'jhola' bag, marketed as an 'Indian Souvenir Bag' for $48.
- When
- Recent
- Where
- Sold in the US; originating from India.
- Why
- The bag is marketed as a fashion accessory.
Social Media Criticism and Outrage
No opposing viewpoints identified
Cultural Appropriation vs. Fair Representation
Social Media Criticism and Outrage
Critics view the sale as cultural appropriation, commercial exploitation, and a distortion of cultural narratives.
No opposing viewpoints identified
No opposing view is explicitly presented in the article.
- Retailer
- Nordstrom
- Brand Selling the Bag
- Puebco (Japanese Brand)
- Bag Name
- Indian Jhola
- Price
- $48 (₹4,228)
- Description
- Indian Souvenir Bag
- Origin
- India
Sources
'Typical coloniser behaviour': US luxury retailer sells Indian 'jhola' bag for Rs 4,100, netizens react
US brand sells humble jhola as 'Indian Souvenir Bag' for Rs 4,228. No, seriously
Viral: US brand is selling Indian Jhola for a pricey ‘souvenir’ and you won’t believe how much it costs!
