In June 2025, global luxury brand Prada introduced a new line of leather sandals that has drawn attention for its resemblance to the traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals. The release has sparked widespread conversation across digital platforms and fashion forums regarding traditional craftsmanship, cultural influences in fashion, and the significance of Geographical Indication rights.
What Are Kolhapuri Chappals?
Kolhapuri chappals are handcrafted leather sandals originating from the town of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, India. Known for their intricate weaving, sturdy build, and open-toe design, these sandals have been part of Indian artisan culture for centuries. Their creation involves skilled manual work by artisans, using vegetable-dyed leather and traditional stitching techniques.
In 2019, the chappals were granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, covering specific regions of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The GI tag affirms the chappals’ cultural and geographic linkage and protects the name from unauthorized commercial use in India.
Prada’s 2025 Sandal Launch
In its Spring/Summer 2025 collection, Prada released a pair of men’s leather sandals that visually align with the design elements of Kolhapuri chappals. The product features similar strap placements, a leather sole, and a minimalist aesthetic, drawing attention from observers familiar with Indian footwear traditions.
The product, listed on Prada’s official website and other global retail platforms, does not currently reference Kolhapuri chappals, India, or traditional Indian artisans in its marketing or product descriptions. The sandals are sold under Prada’s branding as part of their seasonal menswear line.
Public and Media Response
Since the launch, various media outlets, commentators, and fashion analysts have discussed the similarity between Prada’s product and the Kolhapuri design. Social media users and heritage advocates have also highlighted the cultural origins of the footwear style, generating significant online engagement.
The development has drawn interest from stakeholders in the fields of fashion law, intellectual property, and traditional knowledge, particularly in relation to Geographical Indications (GI) and their enforceability on a global scale.
Kolhapuri Chappals and Intellectual Property
Kolhapuri chappals’ GI status provides them with legal protection in India, indicating their origin and traditional method of production. The GI tag was granted jointly to artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka to support heritage preservation and economic rights of artisan communities.
While GI protections within India are enforceable through legal mechanisms, international enforcement remains subject to bilateral treaties, local laws, and interpretations of GI protections under TRIPS (Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights) and other multilateral agreements.
Conclusion
The recent spotlight on Kolhapuri chappals following Prada’s product launch has brought renewed global attention to Indian traditional footwear and its design heritage. As conversations around traditional knowledge and intellectual property evolve, such developments continue to highlight the intersection between local artisan crafts and global fashion narratives.
