India's own Kolhapuri chappal is now 'officially' finding its place on the global fashion stage. Multinational fashion house 'Prada' signed an MoU on Wednesday with two Indian organisations to bring India's Kolhapuri chappal to the world stage. Several months ago, a model was seen walking on Prada's fashion stage wearing Kolhapuri chappals. But no mention was made of India's traditional Kolhapuri chappal on that stage. This drew widespread criticism. Now, setting aside that controversy, the famous fashion brand is joining hands with two of these Indian organisations.
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India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced this matter in a X post after a meeting with Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. He said, "I was very happy when I heard about the collaboration between Prada and our Kolhapuri manufacturers. For the last several years, on many occasions, including before the press, I have often wondered why Kolhapuri chappals with their beautiful intricate designs, handwork, bright colours, comfort and unique way of presentation should not become a global brand."
He also added, "I am happy that Prada has picked that up. I am happy that we will now be able to offer the Kollapuri brand and the Kollapuri designs to the rest of the world."
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With whom was the MoU signed?
On Wednesday, Prada Group signed an MoU with Maharashtra's Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation (LIDCOM) and Karnataka's Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation (LIDKAR). This MoU was signed at the Italy-India Business Council event at the Italian Embassy in Mumbai. According to media reports, this special footwear collection will be available on Prada's website and in retail stores across various countries from early 2026.
Traditional Kolhapuri chappals are made in eight districts of Karnataka and Maharashtra. These chappals are made in Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur in Maharashtra and Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad and Bijapur in Karnataka. Kolhapuri chappal received the GI tag in 2019. Both LIDCOM and LIDKAR organisations have permission to use the GI tag of Kolhapuri chappal.
