Italian luxury brand Prada stirred up quite a buzz after unveiling its new sandals at Milan Fashion Week, which many noted closely resemble traditional Kolhapuri sandals from India. Made from leather and designed with a similar open-toe braided pattern, these sandals ignited debate over cultural appropriation when Prada failed to mention their Indian heritage.
In light of the backlash, Prada issued a statement recognizing that the sandals are inspired by traditional Indian designs, stating that they celebrate craftsmanship and heritage. A spokesperson revealed that the brand has been engaging with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture to discuss this sensitive topic.
Kolhapuri sandals, rooted in the crafts of Maharashtra, date back to the 12th century and are known for their durability in India's heat. In 2019, they received Geographical Indication (GI) status, highlighting their authenticity as a product of the region.
Some artisans expressed disappointment regarding Prada's lack of credit. Prabha Satpute, a Kolhapuri artisan, lamented that their hard work should not be overshadowed by a luxury brand. Meanwhile, industrialist Harsh Goenka pointed out the irony of local artisans receiving minimal compensation while global brands profit from their culture.
Despite the controversy, some artisans have found pride in being recognized on a global stage. Dileep More, a businessman from Kolhapur, noted that the discussion has highlighted their craftsmanship. As history shows, cultural appreciation can be a double-edged sword, bringing both recognition and challenges.
