Prada has decided to work with Indian artisans to create a limited-edition sandal collection, months after the brand faced criticism for using designs similar to traditional Kolhapuri chappals, reported Reuters.
The Italian luxury company will produce 2,000 pairs in Maharashtra and Karnataka, selling each pair for about 800 euros, according to the report.
Prada’s senior executive Lorenzo Bertelli told Reuters that the idea is to mix traditional Indian skills with Italian manufacturing techniques. The sandals will go on sale in February 2026 across 40 Prada stores worldwide and online.
The move comes after a backlash six months ago, when Prada showcased sandals in Milan that resembled Kolhapuri chappals. Photos spread quickly online, leading to anger in India. Prada later accepted that the design drew from ancient Indian styles.
The company has now signed agreements with two government-backed organisations LIDCOM in Maharashtra and LIDKAR in Karnataka,. These groups mainly support artisans from marginalised communities who make traditional chappals by hand.
Bertelli said the aim is to bring global attention to this craft. The partnership will run for three years and will include training programmes for artisans in India and short training opportunities at Prada’s Academy in Italy. He said the project will cost several million euros and assured that artisans will be paid fairly.
Prerna Deshbhratar, managing director of LIDCOM, said that once a global brand like Prada supports this craft, demand is likely to grow naturally.
Get an chance to win ₹5000 Amazon Voucher by taking part in India's Biggest Habit Index! Take the survey here
The TOI Business Desk is a vigilant and dedicated team of journal...
Read MoreThe TOI Business Desk is a vigilant and dedicated team of journalists committed to delivering the latest and most relevant business news from around the world to readers of The Times of India. The primary focus of the TOI Business Desk is to keep a watchful eye on the global business landscape, covering a wide spectrum of industries, markets, economic trends, in-depth analysis, exclusive reports and breaking stories that impact businesses and economies. With a mission to provide valuable insights and updates, the desk ensures that TOI readers are well-informed about the ever-changing and dynamic world of commerce and can navigate the complexities of the business world.
Read LessExpand
Start a Conversation
Post comment