Prada in Kolhapur: Global Brand Visits India After Copycat Claims

Prada in Kolhapur: In an event that blends tradition and shifts it toward global fashion. Luxury fashion house Prada sent a technical delegation of four to Kolhapur, Maharashtra. To see the craftsmanship behind its famous GI-tagged Kolhapuri chappals. This was after the mounting backlash on the firm regarding its use of similar shoes in their 2026 men’s fashion show which many terms as cultural appropriation.

Knowing Centuries of Craftsmanship

During their two-day tour, the team spent time visiting six local artisan units observing all processes. From leather cutting to intricate stitching to realize the entire handmade-production process as experienced in Kolhapuri chappals, which have not been mechanized at all for nearly 800 years.

Local artist Shubham Satpute, who hosted the team at his Inga Leather shop, said he felt proud to showcase his creations. “It is an honor that a global brand like Prada is showing interest in our heritage,” he said.

The Cultural Controversy

This engagement follows a controversy after Prada unveiled sandals that looked suspiciously similar to Kolhapuri chappals. After some protests from the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Prada admitted that the sandals were based “inspired” by Indian handcrafted designs but clarified that the products are still in the design phase and not in mass production.

Signs of Potential Collaboration

According to Lalit Gandhi, president of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, this visit reflects “serious interest” in Indian craftsmanship. He confirmed that the Prada team included heads of footwear design and external consultants, who will now prepare a report for their corporate office.

Also Read: Prada Makes Desi Kolhapuri Look Cool, Internet Reacts With Memes

Also, he hinted at future collaborations by stating that this could be the first step toward recognition and probably partnership between Kolhapuri artisans and international fashion platforms.

Preserving Tradition, Inspiring New Innovations

It opens up avenues for new cross-global culture in that traditional Indian arts are being looked into for inspiration by global brands like Prada. It also raises very important questions of ethics, credit, and fair trade in the global fashion sector.