Prada Faces Backlash, Visits Kolhapur Over Slipper Row

Photo: Instagram/@milanfashionweek

Luxury fashion brand Prada recently found itself in the middle of a cultural controversy. The issue started when Prada showcased slippers that looked like Kolhapuri chappals during their Spring/Summer 2026 Men’s Collection at the Milan Fashion Week. These slippers were priced at around ₹1 lakh, but what shocked many people in India was that Prada did not mention or credit the Indian origin of this footwear. Instead, the brand called them “leather garments,” ignoring the deep cultural and traditional value of Kolhapuri chappals.

This created a wave of backlash on social media and in fashion circles. Many felt that an important part of India’s cultural heritage was being misused or whitewashed by a global brand.

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Why Kolhapuri Chappals Matter

Kolhapuri chappals are not just regular slippers. They are handmade leather footwear that has been crafted by skilled artisans in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, for over 800 years. Each pair is carefully stitched without the use of nails, using techniques passed down through generations. These slippers are known for their durability, unique design, and comfort.

For many families in Kolhapur, making these chappals is their only source of income. It’s not just a product – it’s a livelihood, a tradition, and a symbol of craftsmanship.

Backlash and Criticism

After Prada’s fashion show, social media users in India, along with fashion experts and even business leaders, criticized the brand for not acknowledging the original source of the design. One strong voice was Radhika Gupta, CEO of Edelweiss AMC, who tweeted, “Our textile heritage is for us to preserve.” She, like many others, believed that brands must give proper credit when taking inspiration from another culture.

Some netizens sarcastically commented on the ₹1 lakh price tag, saying things like “Mumbai Linking Road Zindabad,” comparing Prada’s version to street markets in India where similar slippers cost only a few hundred rupees.

Prada Responds: Visiting Kolhapur

After the backlash, Prada decided to take action. A team of senior representatives from the company, led by Paolo Tiveron, director of men’s technical and production department, visited Kolhapur. The visit was meant to understand the history, skill, and effort that goes into making Kolhapuri chappals.

During this trip, the Prada team met with local artisans, including Shubham Satpute, who showed them how each chappal is made by hand. The team also included top members like Daniele Contu (pattern-making manager), and Andrea and Roberto Pollastrelli. They interacted directly with the makers, observed the tools and techniques, and even collected samples of the footwear.

An Effort Toward Cultural Respect

Prada’s visit to Kolhapur was more than a PR move. The brand made an open commitment to follow more responsible design practices. They said they want to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges and respect the local communities whose designs inspire global fashion.

They also announced plans to launch a special “Made in India” collection inspired by the Kolhapuri chappal. This collection will not only give international exposure to Kolhapur’s artisans but also provide them with potential business and income opportunities.

Reaction From Indian Trade and Artisan Groups

Lalit Gandhi, President of the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, praised Prada’s visit but also noted that the initial mistake should not have happened. “They called it a leather garment instead of Kolhapuri chappal. That was a mistake. Prada has promised not to repeat it,” Gandhi said.

He added that this controversy, although unfortunate, has actually put Kolhapuri chappals on the global fashion map. Local trade groups are now asking the Maharashtra state government to take legal and cultural steps to protect this traditional footwear and ensure its rightful recognition in global markets.

Local Artisan Voices: A Ray of Hope

Bhupal Shete, an important member of the Kolhapuri chappal cluster, said the visit was a good sign. He mentioned that government schemes had already helped bring some global attention to the chappals in past years. “Now with Prada’s involvement, we hope even more markets will open up. The art will live on,” he said.

The artisans hope that their work will now reach places it never has before. They also hope this incident will bring more attention to the importance of crediting traditional craftsmanship in a fair and honest way.

What Happens Next?

Prada plans to send a follow-up business team to Kolhapur in early August 2025. The purpose of the next visit is to explore long-term collaborations and maybe even start export partnerships. If everything goes well, Kolhapur artisans may soon see their chappals being sold in stores around the world, proudly labeled as “Made in India.”

The team from Prada took back samples, patterns, and finished pieces to study. Their future designs are expected to reflect not only the shape and style of Kolhapuri chappals but also include patterns and colors inspired by traditional Indian art.

The Bigger Picture: Culture, Fashion, and Responsibility

This incident has sparked a larger conversation about cultural appropriation versus cultural appreciation. When global fashion brands use designs from local or indigenous cultures, they must recognize the people behind those creations. It’s not just about selling a stylish product; it’s about respecting the origin, tradition, and emotions tied to it.

In this case, Prada appears to have realized its mistake and taken steps to correct it. They listened, they learned, and now they are working with the community to make things right.

A Mistake Turned Into Opportunity

What started as a controversy may now become a beautiful partnership. Prada’s visit to Kolhapur has shown that even big brands can admit their mistakes and make efforts to be more inclusive and respectful. For the artisans of Kolhapur, this could be the beginning of a new chapter—one where their art is celebrated, protected, and valued by the world.

This story reminds us all: behind every handmade product, there is a human story, a tradition, and a rich history that must never be forgotten.