The Italian luxury giant Prada is back in the eye of a social media storm following the official launch of its “Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals” collection on Monday, April 27, 2026. While the brand has pivoted from its original controversial stance to a formal collaboration with Indian artisan bodies, the price tag of ₹84,000 ($930) and the use of the word “inspired” have reignited accusations of cultural appropriation and “colonial” mindsets.
From ‘Leather Sandals’ to ‘Made in India’
The controversy dates back to June 2025, when Prada’s Spring/Summer 2026 menswear show in Milan featured toe-ring sandals that were nearly identical to the centuries-old GI-tagged Kolhapuri chappal. At the time, Prada’s show notes described them simply as “leather sandals,” with no mention of their Indian heritage. Following a PIL filed in the Bombay High Court in July 2025 and widespread outrage from the Indian fashion community, the brand entered negotiations with government bodies LIDCOM (Maharashtra) and LIDKAR (Karnataka).
The Collaboration: Artisan Training and Proceeds
In an effort to rectify the narrative, Prada’s new limited-edition line (capped at 2,000 pairs) is being manufactured directly in India by skilled artisans.
- The Training Program: Prada has announced a three-year artisan training initiative funded by the proceeds of the collection.
- Institutional Support: Developed alongside the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Karnataka Institute of Leather & Fashion Technology (KILT), the program aims to train 180 artisans in design fundamentals and digital skills.
- Global Exposure: Select participants will have the opportunity to continue their training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy.
“This IS the Kolhapuri”: Netizens Unmoved
Despite the formal partnerships and the involvement of the Indian government, social media users have labeled the move as “damage control.” Critics argue that a luxury brand charging ₹84,000 for a design that local artisans sell for ₹500 to ₹1,000 remains exploitative. The phrase “inspired by” has drawn particular ire, with one viral comment stating, “Colonial BS. Still have the audacity to insist it’s inspired when it is the OG (Original).” Others compared the move to the “turmeric latte” trend, where traditional Indian staples are repackaged as expensive Western innovations.