Italian luxury brand Prada has stepped into damage control mode after being accused of copying the traditional Kolhapuri chappal in its latest collection. A top-level team from the fashion house recently visited Kolhapur, Maharashtra, to understand the craft that has been a part of Indian culture for generations.
Prada Meets Kolhapur Artisans
According to reports, the Prada delegation spent two days in Kolhapur, meeting local artisans and visiting old manufacturing units. They even walked through the city’s famous Chappal Galli, observing how these iconic sandals are made and sold. Eyewitnesses said the team took notes, asked detailed questions, and studied everything — from raw leather processing to the final finishing of the footwear.
This visit comes weeks after Prada faced intense criticism during Milan Fashion Week, where its Spring-Summer 2026 collection featured a leather sandal strikingly similar to the Kolhapuri chappal. The brand not only failed to acknowledge its inspiration but also priced the sandal at a premium, sparking outrage among fashion critics, celebrities, and social media users. Many accused Prada of cultural appropriation and erasing the identity of artisans who have preserved this craft for decades.
Backlash and Legal Action
The controversy grew when a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Bombay High Court, demanding that Prada compensate Kolhapuri artisans and publicly credit their work. The uproar also put pressure on the brand to respond formally.
Prada Responds
In a letter to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Prada admitted that its sandals were inspired by India’s traditional handmade footwear. The letter reportedly stated, “We acknowledge the heritage.” However, critics pointed out that Prada stopped short of issuing a full apology or offering financial compensation to artisans.
The incident has sparked a larger conversation about intellectual property, cultural respect, and fair acknowledgment in the global fashion industry. For now, all eyes are on Prada to see what steps it takes next.
