"Prada’s Shocking Move: Luxury Giant Dives Deep into Kolhapur’s Chappal Secrets!"
Prada’s team visits Kolhapur to explore Kolhapuri chappal craftsmanship amid design controversy.
In a stunning turn of events, a high-profile team from Italian luxury powerhouse Prada descended on Kolhapur, Maharashtra, to connect with local artisans and unravel the craftsmanship behind the iconic Kolhapuri chappals. The visit comes hot on the heels of accusations that Prada borrowed heavily from the region’s traditional flat sandals for their 2026 men’s fashion show.
The controversy erupted when eagle-eyed observers spotted designs strikingly similar to Kolhapur’s handcrafted chappals on Prada’s runway. In response, Prada admitted the sandals were “inspired” by Indian artistry but emphasized they remain in the design phase, not yet slated for commercial release. To address the uproar, the brand dispatched four experts, including their footwear design chief and two consultants, to Kolhapur on Tuesday.
“They immersed themselves in our world,” said Lalit Gandhi, president of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture. “The team toured our manufacturing hub, watched artisans at work, and engaged in deep discussions about our time-honored techniques.” Gandhi added that the visitors were captivated by the intricate, handmade process that defines Kolhapuri chappals.
Also Read: Sunscreen Scandal: Are Your UV Filters Secretly Harming You?
The Prada team’s report will now head to their corporate office, potentially paving the way for a follow-up visit from senior executives. Could this signal a groundbreaking collaboration? “Their willingness to travel here speaks volumes,” Gandhi noted. “It’s unprecedented for a brand like Prada to engage so directly with Maharashtra’s artisans.”
The visit didn’t stop at workshops. The team explored Kolhapur’s bustling retail markets, chatting with shopkeepers and soaking in the local vibe. After the Maharashtra Chamber raised concerns about uncredited inspiration, Prada’s email response acknowledged the Kolhapuri influence, a move Gandhi sees as a step toward mutual respect.
Also Read: Jerusalem’s Yoga Explosion: Why Hundreds Are Stretching for Peace!