The OG Kolhapuris keep buzzing
After the controversy around their usage of 'Kolhapuri-like footwear' at a
Milan fashion show
, some officials from Italian luxury brand Prada visited Kolhapur recently and met sellers and artisans involved in creating the iconic
Kolhapuri chappals
. A showcase of craftsmanship and heritage, let's look at what makes Kolhapuris so popular.
The reason behind the controversy
Prada, in its Spring/Summer 2026 men's collection in Milan, featured sandals just like the iconic Kolhapuri chappals. This caught attention and received much criticism. The reason? Something with cultural significance was borrowed by a global brand without any acknowledgement or fair credit. The controversy took a legal turn when a PIL was filed seeking a public apology from the luxury brand. However, on Wednesday, the PIL was dismissed by the Bombay High Court.
The latest update
Prada's four-member team, including pattern-making manager Daniele Contu, director of the men's technical and production department (footwear division) Paolo Tiveron, external consultant Andrea Pollastrelli, and external consultant Roberto Pollastrelli, visited Kolhapur on Tuesday to interact with the artisans and gain insight into the traditional craft. Talks of a possible collaboration in the future with the artisans and supply chain have been doing the rounds, that may help with preservation of the art form, cultural appreciation, and economic support. The visit is a result of a virtual meeting, where discussions took place between the designer brand and officials from Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA) about a possible partnership model.
How to spot an OG Kolhapuri chappal
An original leather Kolhapuri chappal won't be the shiniest.
There should be visible stitching.
Look for artistic stamping and intricate lining.
Some categories of Kolhapuri chappals don't have a braiding or veni.
There will be tiny pores on the surface of the chappals.
An original Kolhapuri chappal generally costs over Rs 1,000.
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Origin stories
Kolhapuri chappals are believed to have originated around the 12th century, but the modern day variants trace back their roots to the 18th century. Favoured for their sturdiness and comfort factor, the intricate designs, meant to withstand rugged terrain, had travelers and merchants rely on Kolhapuris for long journeys. For the farmers, it meant sturdy footwear with heavy soles, while for the nobles and warriors, the sandals were lighter and ornate.
The USP of Kolhapuri chappals
Kolhapuri chappals got a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019 that recognises their unique heritage and regional identity. These chappals are a part of the Maharashtrian cultural fabric and proof of
sustainable artistry
. Some artisans also make these chappals in Karnataka. Handcrafted and hand-stitched, a traditional pair of authentic Kolhapuri chappals takes days to create and is made of pure leather. The thick sole is said to be made from a piece of handcrafted leather. What's also unique about these sandals is the leather braiding and stitching, and a peculiar sound they make when you walk in them. There are a variety of styles and patterns available that blend tradition and contemporary.
The beauty of any handmade item is in its imperfections. If everything in a Kolhapuri chappal seems perfect, including the stitching, then the pair is either semi-handmade or machine-made
— Shubham Satpute, co-owner of a Kolhapur-based brand manufacturing Kolhapuri chappals since 1902
Once, I had worked with the late Laxmikant Berde. I asked him if he could get me Kolhapuri chappals and he got them for me. These are the most beautiful chappals I have ever had and they are handmade. I love them
— Neena Gupta, in a video shared on Instagram
Aditya Roy Kapur is one of the many celebs who love wearing Kolhapuri chappals
A photo that Kareena Kapoor Khan shared amid the Prada-Kolhapuri controversy, wearing her 'OG' Kolhapuris while lounging by the pool
Prada or Plagiarised? Kolhapuri Chappals Walk the Milan Runway
Prada falls for Kolhapuri chappals: Luxury giant eyes collaboration with artisans; visit sparks global hope
PIL over 'Kolhapuri-like' Prada sandals dismissed by Bombay High Court
Technical experts from Prada visit Kolhapur, interact with artisans
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