Prada's Kolhapuri Sandal Controversy: Cultural Appropriation Sparks Outrage and Boosts Traditional Footwear Interest

Mumbai, India – Luxury fashion house Prada recently faced significant backlash for its "leather flat sandals" which bear a striking resemblance to traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals. The controversy erupted after social media users and cultural commentators accused the Italian brand of cultural appropriation, particularly as the sandals were priced at approximately $1,800 Canadian dollars, while authentic Kolhapuri chappals, handcrafted by artisans in India for centuries, typically cost less than $10 US dollars. The issue escalated when the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture issued a formal complaint to Prada, urging the brand to acknowledge the historical and cultural origins of the footwear. Critics pointed out that Prada's initial marketing made no mention of India or the traditional craftsmanship behind the design. In response to the widespread outrage, Prada quickly backtracked, issuing a statement that acknowledged the sandals were "inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old heritage." This admission marks a significant shift from their initial stance. Despite the controversy, a small silver lining has emerged for the traditional Indian artisans. Reports indicate an uptick in online searches for Kolhapuri chappals, suggesting that the global attention, albeit initially negative for Prada, may lead to increased awareness and sales for the authentic Indian product.

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Indian community calls out Prada for copying traditional sandal design

Known as Kolhapuri chappals or Kolhapuris, the sandals were first crafted by skilled artisans in the City of Kolhapuri during the 12th century.