Prada launches Indian-made sandals after cultural appropriation backlash

Prada launches Indian-made sandals after cultural appropriation backlash47 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleNikita YadavNurPhoto via Getty ImagesThe Kolhapuri sandals, made in Maharashtra and Karnataka, trace back to the 12th CenturyItalian luxury brand Prada has launched a limited-edition line of sandals inspired by India's traditional Kolhapuri sandals, nearly a year after it faced criticism over cultural appropriation.The company said the new sandals, reportedly priced at €750 ($881; £650) a pair, have been manufactured in India by artisans from the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka, where the sandals are traditionally made.Prada faced backlash last June after it presented similar designs at a Milan fashion show without referring to their Indian origins.At the time, the brand described the toe-loop footwear simply as "leather sandals". The company later acknowledged the design's Indian roots.The collection is being sold across 40 Prada stores worldwide and online, with each pair handmade by artisans. The brand said the line "combines traditional techniques with contemporary design and premium materials", creating what it described as "a dialogue between Indian heritage and modern luxury expression".Prada also announced a three-year training programme for artisans from eight Indian districts associated with making Kolhapuri sandals.The programme, developed in collaboration with two Indian design institutes, will train 180 artisans in six-month modules. Some participants may also have the opportunity to continue training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy, the company said. ReutersPrada first presented the sandals as part of its Spring-Summer 2026 collection Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group's head of corporate social responsibility, said the initiative aims to support artisans by strengthening skills, preserving traditional knowledge and helping local communities sustain the craft.Tanu Kashyap, director gene...