After facing a wave of criticism, Prada is taking a bold step forward by partnering with the Indian government to locally produce a line of leather sandals, turning a misstep into a meaningful collaboration. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a genuine effort to honor traditional craftsmanship, or a strategic move to salvage the brand’s reputation? Let’s dive in.
Earlier this year, Prada found itself at the center of an online storm when its T-strap leather sandals, showcased during the spring 2026 menswear show in Milan, bore a striking resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals—a centuries-old Indian footwear design. The backlash was swift and viral, prompting the luxury brand to take action. In a move that’s both rare and commendable, Prada didn’t just issue a statement; they sent representatives to Kolhapur to meet with Maharashtra-based artisans, signaling a willingness to listen and learn.
Fast forward to now, and Prada has signed a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ with two Indian government organizations: LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd) and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd). This partnership, formalized at the Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai, lays the groundwork for the ‘Prada Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals’ project. And this is the part most people miss: The collection will be entirely manufactured in India, in collaboration with artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, the very regions where Kolhapuri chappals are traditionally handcrafted.
Kolhapuri chappals, produced in eight districts across Maharashtra and Karnataka, are more than just footwear—they’re a cultural treasure. In 2019, they were granted a Geographical Indication tag, a recognition that safeguards their authenticity and underscores their historical significance. Prada’s collaboration aims to not only honor this tradition but also empower local artisans by providing training, job opportunities, and sustainable livelihoods.
Prerna Deshbhratar, managing director of LIDCOM, praised the partnership as an ‘ethical collaboration’ that recognizes the expertise of local artisans and gives them due credit. Dr. K.M. Vasundhara, managing director of LIDKAR, echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the initiative opens global doors for Karnataka’s artisans while preserving their heritage.
But here’s the question: Is Prada’s move a genuine celebration of artisanal excellence, or a calculated response to public pressure? Lorenzo Bertelli, head of corporate social responsibility at Prada Group, framed the collaboration as a ‘meaningful cultural exchange,’ emphasizing the brand’s commitment to training programs that support Indian artisans. Yet, skeptics might argue that this is a PR-driven effort to rebuild trust after the initial controversy.
What’s undeniable is that this partnership marks a new chapter in Prada’s ‘Made In…’ project, which has been celebrating global craftsmanship for over a decade. The collection, set to debut globally in February 2026 across 40 Prada stores and online, promises to blend traditional techniques with contemporary design. But will it be enough to satisfy critics and honor the legacy of Kolhapuri chappals?
What do you think? Is Prada’s collaboration a step in the right direction, or a superficial attempt to address deeper issues? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!
