Prada partners with Indian corporations for Kolhapuri chappal project
In a significant collaboration aimed at celebrating and globalizing Indian craftsmanship, the luxury fashion house Prada has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two key state-owned Indian government corporations: LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd) and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd). The agreement was formalized yesterday at the Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai during the Italy-India Business Forum.
The MoU officially launches the “PRADA Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals” project. This initiative will result in a limited-edition collection of sandals that merges the traditional techniques of the GI-tagged Kolhapuri Chappal with Prada’s contemporary design and premium materials. Crucially, the sandals will be manufactured in India, directly involving skilled artisans from the historical handcrafting regions across Maharashtra and Karnataka.
“PRADA Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals” project
This partnership is being lauded as an ethical collaboration, providing full credit and recognition to the artisans who have preserved this craft for generations. Prerna Deshbhratar, I.A.S., LIDCOM managing director, stated that the initiative "highlights India’s vision of taking its rich cultural heritage to global platforms while celebrating the authenticity and legacy of Kolhapuri chappals." Similarly, Dr. K.M. Vasundhara, LIDKAR managing director, emphasized that the project "opens new global opportunities for Karnataka’s artisans... safeguarding tradition while empowering communities through training, job opportunities and sustainable livelihoods."
A core component of the agreement is the development of locally-based training programs, modeled after the Prada Group Academy. These programs are designed to help artisans upscale their skills while ensuring the preservation of the traditional craftsmanship. Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group head of corporate social responsibility, highlighted the foundation of the project in "meaningful cultural exchange" and the commitment to supporting Indian artisans. The resulting collection, which celebrates global artisanal excellence, is scheduled for a worldwide debut in February 2026 across 40 select Prada stores and its official e-commerce platform.
Addressing past controversy
This landmark signing follows an earlier controversy where Prada showcased footwear at its Milan fashion show that strongly resembled the Kolhapuri chappals but initially lacked proper acknowledgment of their Indian origin. Signaling a commitment to correct engagement, the official signing was preceded by a two-day visit in July by a team of four technical experts from Prada, led by Paolo Tiveron (director of the men's technical and production department, footwear division).
The delegation directly engaged with local artisans in Kolhapur, visiting their homes and factories in the industrial belt. This direct interaction and commitment to collaborating with local supply chains, expressed earlier to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA), frames the MoU as a definitive step toward rectifying past oversights and formally acknowledging the skilled craftsmanship of India.