Mon, 30 Jun 2025

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 Prada acknowledges footwear design's Indian roots after backlash

Prada described the Kolhapuri sandals as "leather footwear" but did not mention its origins, prompting backlash.
Italian luxury fashion label Prada has acknowledged the Indian roots of its new footwear line, which drew criticism for cultural appropriation. The sandals, showcased at Milan Fashion Week, bore a resemblance to traditional Kolhapuri sandals made in Maharashtra and Karnataka states. Prada initially described the sandals as "leather footwear" without mentioning their Indian origins. However, after facing backlash, the company said it recognizes the design was inspired by traditional Indian footwear. A Prada spokesperson stated that the company celebrates craftsmanship, heritage, and design traditions. The controversy centered around the fact that Prada did not credit the artisans who have preserved the Kolhapuri sandal's heritage for generations. In response to a letter from the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture, Prada said it was open to a dialogue with local Indian artisans. Kolhapuri sandals have been awarded Geographical Indication status by the Indian government and are known for their traditional handcrafted design. Artisans in Kolhapur expressed disappointment that Prada did not give due credit for using the design. The price of Prada's version, which is reportedly hundreds of rupees, has also sparked criticism, given that local artisans barely make any money from similar handmade products. This incident follows other instances of global brands accused of appropriating Indian traditional products without crediting their roots. However, some in Kolhapur see the move as a positive development, instilling pride among artisans for their work being recognized.
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