• Prada will launch a limited edition of Kolhapuri sandals made with Indian artisans.
• The collaboration follows backlash over the brand's cultural appropriation of the design.
• 2,000 pairs will be produced and sold for around $930 each starting in February 2026.

Italian luxury brand Prada has recently announced a collaboration with Indian artisans to create a limited-edition collection of Kolhapuri sandals. This decision comes months after the brand faced intense criticism over allegations of cultural appropriation when Prada showcased sandals that closely resembled traditional Kolhapuri chappals during a Milan fashion show. The backlash culminated in widespread outrage, particularly from Indian artisans and politicians, highlighting the need for recognition of traditional craftsmanship, according to Channel News Asia and BBC.

Under a memorandum of understanding signed with two state-backed organizations, Prada plans to produce 2,000 pairs of sandals in Maharashtra and Karnataka, blending traditional Indian craftsmanship with Italian manufacturing techniques, as stated by Prada's senior executive Lorenzo Bertelli. Each pair is expected to sell for approximately 800 euros ($930 or Rs 84,000), and the collection is set to launch in February 2026 across 40 Prada stores worldwide and online, according to reports from India Times and India Times.

Prada's initiative aims to support artisans by implementing local training programs and providing fair compensation for their work. This partnership is being lauded as an opportunity to showcase the talents of Kolhapuri artisans on a global stage and may significantly enhance demand for their traditional crafts. Suraj Satpute, a local sandal maker, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “We expect Prada to provide us with good quality soft leather so that we can make chappals as per customers' needs,” as reported by BBC and Channel News Asia.

The collaboration also includes a significant investment in artisan training, which will consist of local programs and opportunities for artisans to gain experience at Prada's Academy in Italy. This project marks a vital step in preserving the heritage of Kolhapuri sandals, which have origins tracing back to the 12th century. Amendment of this cultural link between India and Italy is seen as a way to revitalize interest in this traditional art form, as highlighted by India Times and Channel News Asia.