Prada announces launch of limited-edition sandals inspired by Kolhapuri chappals

Prada has launched a collection of footwear made in India and inspired by Kolhapuri chappals, almost a year after allegations of “cultural appropriation” marred the launch of the spring/summer 2026 menswear collection of the Italian fashion house.

The leather footwear is available at select stores and on its website. The Milan-based company said the limited-edition collection will be manufactured in India by skilled artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka.

The Mumbai-based Sant Rohidas Leather Industries & Charmakar Development Corporation (LIDCOM), which jointly holds the geographical indication (GI) rights for Kolhapuri chappals with Karnataka’s LIDKAR, had sent legal notices to Prada in July last year amid a dispute that now appears to have been resolved.


Prada Group also announced the launch of a training programme for artisans from eight districts in India where Kolhapuri chappals are traditionally manufactured. “The programme is designed to strengthen design and technical skills, enabling artisans to create products that meet evolving market needs, while ensuring the continued relevance of this traditional craft,” the company said. “This initiative, which will be fully funded by Prada, including through proceeds from the sale of the limited-edition sandal collection, reflects the Group’s long-standing commitment to reinvest in education and culture. The programme will run over three years in structured six-month modules, reaching a total of 180 artisans.”

Applications are open to artisans aged 18-45 years, with the programme developed in collaboration with LIDCOM and LIDKAR, and in partnership with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Karnataka Institute of Leather & Fashion Technology (KILT) where the training courses will be delivered.

The first programme will start in summer, with applications for the initial 30 seats (15 at NIFT and 15 at KILT) opening in May on LIDKAR, LIDCOM and the institutes’ websites. At the end of each six-month module, select participants will have the opportunity to continue their training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy, where they will further develop their craftsmanship and technical expertise under the guidance of the group’s experts.

“Education is a fundamental pillar in ensuring that craftsmanship remains a living practice. With this training programme, we are translating a shared cultural dialogue into a concrete opportunity for learning and growth. Supporting artisans through structured training means safeguarding knowledge, strengthening local communities, and ensuring that traditional craftsmanship continues to evolve and thrive,” said Lorenzo Bertelli, head of corporate social responsibility at Prada Group.