Prada Partners with Indian Govt. Bodies to Celebrate Kolhapuri Chappals in Luxury Sandals
Image Source: Internet
In a move to celebrate Indian craftsmanship and address past criticism, Prada has signed a memorandum of understanding with two Indian government organisations, LIDCOM and LIDKAR, to source Kolhapuri Chappals-inspired sandals. The luxury fashion house will collaborate with skilled artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka to manufacture the limited-edition collection in India. The 'PRADA Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals' project aims to combine traditional techniques with Prada's contemporary design and premium materials. This unique fusion will not only showcase Indian heritage but also provide an opportunity for artisans to upscale their skills through local training programs. LIDCOM and LIDKAR, dedicated to preserving the Indian leather industry and Kolhapuri Chappals heritage, will work closely with Prada to ensure the project's success. The collaboration comes after Prada faced criticism earlier this year for its Spring/Summer 2026 collection, which resembled traditional Indian Kolhapuri Chappals. Through this initiative, Prada Group will establish locally tailored training programs to help artisans preserve traditional craftsmanship while learning modern techniques. This model follows the Prada Group Academy's approach, which aims to foster skill exchange and create learning opportunities for young people within local communities. The limited-edition collection, set to celebrate Indian craftsmanship, will be a significant step forward for Prada in promoting cultural exchange and collaboration with Indian artisans. With this partnership, Prada demonstrates its commitment to preserving traditional techniques while pushing the boundaries of luxury fashion.
