Pune, Maharashtra | June 26, 2025 — NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MLA Rohit Pawar has raised serious concerns over luxury fashion brand Prada allegedly selling Kolhapuri-style chappals for an astonishing ₹1.2 lakh without giving credit to the traditional artisans or using the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
The footwear in question was showcased at Prada’s “Men’s Spring/Summer 2026” collection during Milan Fashion Week. It bears a striking resemblance to the traditional handmade Kolhapuri chappals, which are an iconic product of Maharashtra and Karnataka and usually cost anywhere between ₹500 and ₹1,500.
Taking to social media, Rohit Pawar criticized the global fashion giant, labeling the brand a “चप्पलचोर” (sandal thief). He emphasized that selling such culturally significant designs without acknowledgment is not just unethical but also a violation of intellectual property laws related to GI-tagged products.
“Our artisans put in years of skill and effort to preserve the tradition of Kolhapuri chappals. It is unacceptable for an international brand to market these designs at sky-high prices without even a mention of their roots,” Pawar said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Pawar has urged the Maharashtra government to investigate the matter and take legal action under the Intellectual Property Rights and GI Act. He further pointed out that this is a clear example of cultural appropriation and exploitation of Indian heritage by global brands.
The controversy has sparked a widespread debate online, with netizens echoing Pawar’s sentiment and accusing Prada of cultural theft. Many social media users demanded that the brand either remove the product or ensure that local artisans benefit from such global exposure.
Why Kolhapuri Chappals Matter
Kolhapuri chappals, known for their durability, intricate design, and cultural legacy, have held GI status since 2019. This status legally protects their name and origin, ensuring that only products made in specific regions of Maharashtra and Karnataka can be marketed under the name “Kolhapuri.”
What’s Next?
- The state government is expected to examine the issue closely.
- There are growing calls for Prada to acknowledge the source of inspiration and possibly collaborate with Indian artisans.
- This incident adds to the global conversation about ethical fashion and the importance of crediting cultural sources.
This episode serves as a reminder that in a globally connected world, fashion brands must act responsibly and respect the cultural and legal ownership of traditional designs.