Prada Faces Backlash Over ₹84,000 ‘Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals’ Collection, Internet Calls It “Copy-Paste Luxury”
Prada has faced online criticism after launching its ₹84,000 Kolhapuri-inspired chappals, with many calling the luxury collection “copy-paste” of traditional Indian footwear.
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Luxury fashion brand Prada has come under fire online after unveiling its new “Made in India × Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals” collection. The Italian label shared a video on Instagram showing the limited-edition sandals, which were created in collaboration with Indian artisan bodies LIDCOM from Maharashtra and LIDKAR from Karnataka.
The collection, described by Prada as a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern luxury design, was introduced with the aim of highlighting Indian heritage.
In its official caption, the brand said the sandals were “crafted by skilled artisans” and designed to combine “traditional techniques with Prada’s contemporary design and premium materials.”
Also Read: Prada Embraces Kolhapuri Chappals in Reverse Globalisation
Artisan Training Programme Launched:
Prada also announced a training programme as part of the project. The initiative will be fully funded by the company, including through proceeds from the sale of the sandals. It will support artisans from eight districts in India where Kolhapuri chappals are traditionally made.
The programme has been developed in partnership with LIDCOM, LIDKAR, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), and the Karnataka Institute of Leather and Fashion Technology (KILT). According to the brand, the goal is to strengthen design and technical skills and help artisans adapt to changing market demands while preserving the traditional craft.
However, the collection quickly sparked backlash on social media. While Prada highlighted its collaboration with Indian artisans, many users were unimpressed and accused the brand of copying a traditional design without proper credit in spirit.
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Online Backlash:
Online reactions included criticism calling the project “copy-paste luxury” and “colonial BS,” with many questioning the authenticity of the collaboration.
The sandals have also drawn attention for their reported price point, with online discussions suggesting they may cost around ₹84,000, although Prada has not officially confirmed the pricing of the limited-edition collection.
Despite the controversy, Prada described the project as a long-term commitment to education and cultural support. The brand said it aims to “reinvest in education and culture” through such collaborations.
