Cultural Outcry Over Prada's Fashion Faux Pas: The Kolhapuri Chappal Controversy

Indians are increasingly vocal about the recognition of their traditional crafts in the global market, exemplified by recent controversies over the Kolhapuri chappal.

Earlier this month, during Milan Fashion Week, Prada debuted a collection that featured T-strap sandals reminiscent of the traditional Kolhapuri chappal, a handcrafted leather footwear worn widely across India. This stirred a wave of social media outrage, as many deemed it a blatant case of cultural appropriation. The Kolhapuri chappal, named after the Maharashtra town of Kolhapur where it originates, holds significant cultural value and is cherished for both its craftsmanship and heritage.

The backlash was swift and fierce, mirroring a rising sentiment in India that emphasizes the urgency of protecting and acknowledging its cultural exports. The Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce quickly addressed the issue, sending a formal letter to Prada, demanding recognition for the traditional origins of the design. Following this, the Italian brand apologized, acknowledging the influence of Indian footwear in their recent collection, which they featured for the Men's 2026 Spring-Summer lineup.

This incident does not merely reflect a moment of outrage but signals a deeper desire among Indians for their traditional craftsmanship to gain the visibility and respect it deserves on the world stage. With a growing national confidence, India's younger generations are determined to confront brands that exploit their cultural innovations without attribution, demanding rightful acknowledgment and respect for their heritage.