Prada Acknowledges Sandals Inspired By Indian Kolhapuri Footwear

In an exclusive statement given to NDTV, Prada has finally acknowleged that the footwear pieces  featured in its Men’s 2026 Spring/Summer show in Milan, were isnpired by the traditional Indian handcrafted pieces made in specific districts of Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Previously, the Italian luxury couture label, Prada has been facing major backlash post featuring footwear that strongly looks like the traditional Indian Kolhapuri chappals in their latest showcase at the Paris Men’s Fashion Week 2025. Artisans from around India and particularly Maharashtra had raised their voices after footwear similar to the famous Kolhapuri chappals featured in Prada’s show. 

In an exclsuive response to NDTV the Prada Group Press Office mentioned, “At Prada Group, we have always celebrated craftsmanship, heritage and design traditions. Prada acknowledges that sandals inspired by traditional Indian footwear made in specific districts in Maharashtra and Karnataka, India, were featured in its Men’s 2026 Spring Summer show in Milan.”

The statement further read, “We are committed to responsible design practices, fostering cultural engagement, and opening a dialogue for a meaningful exchange with local Indian artisan communities as we have done in the past in other collections to ensure the rightful recognition of their craft. We are in contact with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture on this topic.”