Prada to roll out kolhapuri chappals worth ₹84k crafted by desi artisans from Feb 2026. Details here

Italian luxury group Prada is set to launch limited edition sandals made by Indian artisans after it faced criticism for cultural appropriation of traditional Kolhapuri shoes at a show in Milan. The new collection, priced at around €800 or $930 a pair (around INR 84,029), will consist of 2,000 units and blend local craftsmanship from Maharashtra and Karnataka with Italian Prada technology. Reuters news agency reported that the sandals will be available globally from February 2026 in 40 Prada stores and online.

This initiative is a collaboration between Prada and two Indian state-backed bodies: Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Sharmakar Development Corporation (LIDCOM) and Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation (LIDKAR). The three-year partnership will train local artisans, offer local programs and short-term opportunities at the Prada Academy in Italy. The Chapals have their roots in marginalized communities, and the collaboration aims to support the preservation and recognition of their heritage.

“We will blend the OEM’s standard capabilities with our own manufacturing techniques,” said Bertelli, Prada’s chief marketing officer and head of CSR. The project and training program will require an investment of “several million euros.”

“Once Prada endorses the craft as a luxury product, a domino effect will surely work and drive demand for the craft,” said Prerna Deshprathar, Managing Director, LIDCOM. The artisans hope that this project will increase income and attract younger generations to traditional crafts that are at risk due to low demand.

India’s luxury goods market was estimated to be worth $7 billion in 2024, with Deloitte forecasting growth of up to $30 billion by 2030. However, the market is still much smaller than the Chinese market, which Bain estimated to be worth $49.56 billion in 2024. Most global brands have entered India through partnerships with conglomerates such as Reliance and the Aditya Birla Group.

Bertelli described India as a “real potential new market” but said Prada would prefer to enter independently, even if it meant delaying expansion. “We are not yet planning to open any store in India, but it is something we are strongly considering,” he said, indicating the possibility of entering the retail sector within three to five years.

The company recently opened its first beauty store in Delhi, but has no plans to open new clothing stores or manufacturing facilities in India in the next year. This strategy sets Prada apart from competitors like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, which already have a presence in India through joint ventures and partnerships.

“We want to be a multiplier in awareness of these men,” Bertelli added, underscoring Prada’s commitment to increasing international recognition of Indian craftsmanship. The project is expected to benefit artisans, preserve traditional skills, and promote interest in authentic products with cultural roots.

($1 = 90.35 Indian rupees)