Prada Experts Visit Kolhapur to Engage with Local Artisans

Quick Summary

• A four-member technical team of Prada visited Kolhapur, Maharashtra, for two days to understand the customary production process behind GI-tagged Kolhapuri chappals, a craft over 800 years old.
• The team toured six artisan setups and the Kolhapuri chappal market to observe handmade production methods without mechanical intervention.
• Shubham Satpute of Inga Leather expressed pride in showcasing the legacy craftsmanship to Prada’s representatives.
• This visit follows allegations that prada appropriated the design of Kolhapuri chappals in their men’s 2026 fashion show runway collection.
• Prada acknowledged its sandals were “inspired” by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear but clarified they are at the design stage and not confirmed for commercial production.
• Lalit Gandhi, president of Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, highlighted artistry involved in creating Kolhapuri chappals and indicated potential seriousness from prada regarding future collaboration.
• The visiting team included heads of footwear design at Prada and external consultants who will submit a report to their corporate office.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Prada’s visit emphasizes global interest in india’s rich artisanal heritage and underscores efforts toward cultural acknowledgment following allegations of appropriation. While it is unclear if any formal collaboration will emerge from this engagement, such visits could offer valuable opportunities for local artisans by providing exposure on international platforms. Highlighting tradition-driven craftsmanship may also contribute positively toward preserving endangered cultural practices like the production processes behind Kolhapuri chappals. Though, rigorous protection mechanisms around GI tags remain crucial to prevent misuse or commercialization without fair compensation or accreditation.

Read more: The Hindu