Maharashtra Artisans Protest Prada's Use of Kolhapuri Designs

Mumbai, June 27 (PTI) — Artisans in Maharashtra are calling for action after Italian luxury fashion house Prada's spring/summer collection showcased footwear strikingly similar to the iconic Kolhapuri chappals. The artisans allege this to be a breach of geographical identification (GI) rights.

BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dhananjay Mahadik led a group of these artisans to meet with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, presenting a letter urging him to investigate the matter and protect this emblem of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage.

Speaking with PTI, Mahadik stated that the chappals being marketed by Prada feature Kolhapuri designs and are sold at a staggering price between Rs 1.7 lakh and Rs 2.10 lakh per pair.

"We aspire for Prada to acknowledge the Kolhapuri identity of their products. Local artisans should benefit financially. If given the opportunity, we can manufacture for Prada, thus promoting the Kolhapuri brand worldwide," Mahadik expressed.

The artisans would gain not only revenue but recognition through such acknowledgments.

Mahadik also mentioned plans to file a public interest litigation (PIL) in the high court and sought a meeting with Union Minister Piyush Goyal to take the issue forward.

In his letter to the chief minister, Mahadik highlighted that on June 23, Prada revealed its men's Spring/Summer 2026 collection in Milan featuring sandals resembling the Kolhapuri Chappals that have held a GI tag from the Indian government since 2019.

He pointed out the lack of acknowledgment to the original community and the absence of any financial benefit or credit to the authentic artisans of Kolhapur and nearby areas who remain custodians of this craft.

"This commercial exploitation not only violates GI norms but endangers the livelihood and dignity of the numerous families engaged in this ancient craftsmanship," he noted.

Kolhapuri chappals are distinctive open-toe sandals known for their braided leather design and intricate details, with a history tracing back to the 12th century. These sandals are traditionally handcrafted in Kolhapur and neighboring districts such as Sangli, Satara, and Solapur.

Being a representative from Kolhapur, Mahadik requested the Chief Minister to bring this issue to the attention of the Centre for swift intervention. He also emphasized the necessity to create awareness at the state level and establish protective measures for GI-tagged crafts.

Moreover, Mahadik demanded state-backed legal and financial aid for artisans facing international exploitation.

Following backlash, Mahadik claimed Prada removed the images of the sandals from its website.