According to a BBC report, Prada has launched a limited-edition line of sandals inspired by India's traditional Kolhapuri sandals, priced at €750 (£650) a pair. The sandals, handmade by artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, are being sold across 40 Prada stores worldwide and online, the report added. In a statement to the BBC, Prada said the design combines traditional techniques with contemporary design and premium materials.
The launch follows controversy last June when Prada faced backlash for presenting similar sandals without referring to their Indian origins, BBC News reported. The company had initially described the footwear as 'leather sandals,' the report said. Prada later acknowledged the design's Indian roots, the BBC added. The price point has drawn further criticism, as traditional Kolhapuri sandals in India typically sell for between 500 and 1,000 rupees, according to the report.
combines traditional techniques with contemporary design and premium materials
In response, Prada has announced a three-year training programme for artisans from eight Indian districts associated with making Kolhapuri sandals, the company said in a statement. Developed in collaboration with two Indian design institutes, the programme will train 180 artisans in six-month modules, Prada added. The names of the collaborating institutes have not been disclosed. Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group’s head of corporate social responsibility, told the BBC that the initiative aims to support artisans by strengthening skills, preserving traditional knowledge and helping local communities sustain the craft. Some participants may have the opportunity to continue training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy, Bertelli said. The number of sandals produced has not been revealed.
According to historical records, Kolhapuri sandals date back to the 12th century and were granted Geographical Indication (GI) status by the Indian government in 2019, BBC News noted. Tanu Kashyap, director general of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, told BBC News that the programme helps promote traditional Indian crafts in global markets.
a dialogue between Indian heritage and modern luxury expression