Watch: Kolhapuri chappal sellers cry foul over Prada sandal design
Last Updated : Jun 27 2025 | 8:15 PM IST
Italian fashion house Prada finds itself at the centre of a heated debate about cultural appropriation and GI tag violations after its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection featured flat leather sandals that bear a striking resemblance to the traditional Kolhapuri chappals.
The design of the Indian Kolhapuri chappals has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising their unique cultural significance.
Social media is abuzz with many calling out Prada for allegedly appropriating a centuries-old design without acknowledging its origin or the artisans who craft them.