In response to criticism surrounding the appropriation of Indian designs, the Italian fashion brand Prada has finalized an official partnership agreement with the Indian government. As part of the deal, the production of 2,000 pairs of sandals has been approved, alongside the launch of an educational program in India aimed at recognizing and preserving the country’s artisanal heritage.
Prada has announced the release of a limited edition sandal series inspired by the traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappal, following backlash last year over the use of the design without proper attribution.
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The collection is expected to launch in February 2026 and will be available both online and across 40 Prada stores worldwide. The sandals are priced at $939, approximately 84,000 rupees or £800. The agreement was finalized on Thursday under the Italy-India Business Forum 2025.
As reported by Reuters, “The Italian company will produce 2,000 pairs of sandals in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka as part of a partnership with two organizations backed by the government.” Prada plans to integrate its own production methods with those of local manufacturers. “We will combine the standard production capabilities of the original manufacturers with our own production techniques,” said Lorenzo Bertelli, head of corporate responsibility at Prada.
Milan Meets Karnataka
Prada sparked controversy in June after selling sandals featuring an open-weave toe design that closely resembled traditional Kolhapuri sandals produced in Maharashtra and Karnataka. The company initially described the product as “leather footwear” without acknowledging its Indian origin, prompting accusations of cultural appropriation. Prada later acknowledged that the design was inspired by Indian craftsmanship.
A Prada spokesperson told the BBC that the company “has always celebrated craftsmanship, heritage, and design,” and confirmed it was in discussions with the Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture of Maharashtra regarding the matter.
According to the BBC, Maharashtra’s Education and Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirshat stated that the initiative would be titled “Prada Made in India – Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals.” Artisans wishing to collaborate with Prada will be required to meet the brand’s standards, with selected participants receiving specialized training through Prada and LIDCOM, a government body supporting Maharashtra’s leather industry. Additionally, approximately 200 Kolhapuri artisans will receive training in Italy over a three-year period.
Shirshat added that the agreement is set for five years, with the possibility of extension. Kolhapuri sandals date back to the 12th century and originate from Kolhapur, a city in Maharashtra. Traditionally crafted from leather and sometimes dyed using natural pigments, the sandals were designed for India’s hot climate. When the controversy first emerged, Kolhapuri craftsmen expressed disappointment over the use of their designs without proper credit.
