Prada, the renowned Italian luxury brand, is set to debut a limited-edition collection of sandals crafted in India, bearing a keen resemblance to the traditional Indian Kolhapuri footwear. This initiative comes just months after the brand had to face a wave of criticism for showcasing similar designs without giving due credit to their Indian origins.
These exclusive pairs, each having a price tag of approximately 750 euros (US$881), are set to make a grand entrance into the luxury fashion platform. This initiative has its roots in a controversy that stirred up in June 2025. Prada was under fire for presenting sandals at a Milan fashion show which greatly resembled the traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals. This led to an uproar among Indian artisans and political figures, who claimed this to be a case of cultural appropriation.
In response, Prada acknowledged the inspiration drawn from the timeless Indian styles and disclosed that it had initiated discussions with artisan groups for potential collaboration.
In December, Prada revealed its plans to manufacture a total of 2000 pairs of these Indian-inspired sandals. This production will take place in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka, as part of agreements with two state-endorsed organizations. This collaboration aims to blend localized craftsmanship with innovative Italian technology.
The brand announced that these sandals will be available for purchase in 40 carefully chosen Prada outlets around the globe, as well as online.
Moreover, Prada has initiated a three-year training programme specifically designed for artisans hailing from the eight districts in India traditionally associated with the crafting of Kolhapuri sandals. This programme, divided into six-month structured modules, will be delivered by two esteemed Indian design institutes. The objective is to enhance the skills of 180 artisans, with the first batch starting next month.
In a statement, Tanu Kashyap, the director general at the National Institute of Fashion Technology, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “It is time that Indian traditional crafts take their rightful place on the world stage”.
Additionally, these artisans will be given a chance to visit the Prada Group Academy in Italy to enhance their technical prowess further.
What was the controversy Prada faced in June 2025?
Prada faced backlash for showcasing sandals at a Milan fashion show that resembled traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals, without acknowledging their cultural origin.
How is Prada merging traditional Indian craftsmanship with Italian technology?
Prada plans to manufacture 2000 pairs of sandals in Maharashtra and Karnataka in India, in collaboration with local artisans and under agreements with two state-backed organizations.
What is the three-year training programme initiated by Prada?
Prada has kicked off a three-year training programme for artisans from eight districts in India traditionally associated with Kolhapuri sandal-making. Delivered by two leading Indian design institutes, the programme aims to enhance the skills of 180 artisans.
