Luxury fashion house Prada has announced it will launch a limited-edition line of Kolhapuri-inspired sandals made in India, months after facing criticism for allegedly appropriating the traditional Indian footwear’s design.
The Italian brand will produce 2,000 pairs of sandals in Maharashtra and Karnataka under an agreement with two state-backed entities, according to sources. The collection, priced at about $930 (£800 or ₹84,000) per pair, is scheduled to go on sale in February 2026 through Prada’s website and 40 stores worldwide.
Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada’s head of corporate social responsibility, said the project will combine traditional craftsmanship with the company’s manufacturing expertise. “We’ll mix the original manufacturer’s standard capabilities with our manufacturing techniques,” he said.
The agreement was signed Thursday at the Italy–India Business Forum 2025.
Prada drew backlash in June after unveiling sandals featuring an open-toe braided design that closely resembled Kolhapuri chappals but were described simply as “leather footwear,” with no reference to their Indian origins. The omission sparked accusations of cultural appropriation, prompting widespread criticism in India.
Following the controversy, Prada acknowledged the design’s roots and said it had been in discussions with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture.
Maharashtra’s Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat told sources that the new initiative will be branded “Prada Made in India – Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals.” He said select artisans will receive specialised training from Prada and LIDCOM, a state-backed leather industry body, while around 200 Kolhapuri artisans will undergo three years of training in Italy.
Shirsat added that the agreement is set for five years, with expectations it could be extended, and confirmed that the state government will provide financial assistance to participating artisans.
Kolhapuri sandals, named after the Maharashtra city where they originated, date back to the 12th century. Traditionally handcrafted from leather and often dyed with natural colours, the sandals are prized for their durability and suitability for India’s hot climate.
