India’s traditional leather craft, Kolhapuri chappals, is set to get a global stage and international recognition after an official collaboration with the luxury brand Prada.
An official statement said that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Prada, LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries & Charmakar Development Corporation), and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation) at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai, during the Italy-India Business Council meeting.
Tradition meets modern design
Under the initiative, Kolhapuri chappals will be crafted by combining centuries-old traditional manufacturing techniques with Prada’s contemporary design sensibilities. The exclusive collection, titled “Prada Made in India – Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals”, will be available in Prada’s 40 retail outlets worldwide and on its official website by February 2026.
Government support and artisan benefits
The statement further said that the Maharashtra Government strongly backs the project, with guidance from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, and Minister of State Madhuri Misal.
Shirsat stated that the collaboration will benefit artisans, professionals, and entrepreneurs across India, while giving Indian craftsmanship greater global recognition.
Prerna Deshbhratar, Managing Director of LIDCOM, said, “The partnership honours generations of artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka and ensures that their work receives worldwide identity and credit. Dr. K. M. Vasundhara, Managing Director of LIDKAR, added that this collaboration opens doors for training, employment, and global opportunities for traditional artisans.”
Cultural significance and global platform
Kolhapuri chappals are produced in eight districts — Maharashtra: Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur; Karnataka: Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad, Bijapur. In 2019, they received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising their cultural authenticity.
Lorenzo Bertelli, head of the social responsibility division of the Prada Group, said that this partnership is a new milestone in cultural exchange. He reaffirmed Prada’s commitment to giving Indian artisans rightful recognition in the modern world.
“The MoU defines the framework, implementation strategy, and guidelines for the project. The footwear will be made in India with premium materials, traditional techniques, and contemporary designs, creating a unique dialogue between India’s heritage and global luxury fashion,” the official statement said.
