Prada Acknowledges Kolhapuri Chappal Inspiration After Outcry
Italian luxury brand Prada has formally acknowledged that sandals in its upcoming menswear collection were inspired by traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals. The admission came after protests from Indian artisans and the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, who cited the footwear's Geographical Indication (GI) status and accused the brand of appropriation. Prada stated it is committed to a dialogue with local artisan communities to ensure rightful recognition, highlighting a significant moment for cultural heritage protection in global fashion.
Unpacked:
A Geographical Indication (GI) tag is a form of intellectual property protection that recognizes products as originating from a specific location, attributing unique qualities to that region. Kolhapuri chappals received the GI tag in 2019, ensuring only authentic products made by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka can use the name, protecting their traditional craft and economic interests.
Indian artisans and officials protested Prada’s use of Kolhapuri-style sandals without proper attribution. The Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce and BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik called it a violation of GI norms and the Artisan Act, urging government action to protect the heritage and livelihood of Kolhapuri chappal makers.
Prada formally acknowledged that its sandals were inspired by Kolhapuri chappals after facing protests. The brand committed to engaging in dialogue with Indian artisan communities to ensure rightful recognition and respect for cultural heritage, marking a step toward collaborative cultural protection.
Cultural appropriation in global fashion can undermine traditional artisans by copying their designs without credit or fair compensation. It risks erasing the cultural identity of the original creators, diminishes their economic opportunities, and can spark backlash, as seen in the Prada-Kolhapuri controversy, highlighting the need for ethical collaboration and recognition of heritage.