Wednesday 29 / April / 2026
Less than a year after Italian luxury brand Prada faced backlash for showcasing sandals inspired by traditional Indian design without acknowledging their origins, the company is launching a limited-edition range of Indian-made Kolhapuri sandals.
The launch follows controversy in June 2025, when Prada displayed footwear resembling centuries-old Kolhapuri chappals at a Milan fashion show. The move triggered protests from Indian artisans and politicians, who accused the brand of cultural appropriation.
Prada later acknowledged the Indian inspiration and began collaboration talks with artisan groups.
In December, the company announced plans to produce 2,000 pairs in Maharashtra and Karnataka under agreements with two state-backed bodies, combining local craftsmanship with Italian technology.
The sandals, priced at about €750 ($881) a pair, will be sold through 40 selected Prada stores worldwide and online, the company said Monday.
