Overview

• A Public Interest Litigation in the Bombay High Court seeks a public apology, damages and formal recognition for Kolhapuri artisans following Prada’s uncredited use of the GI-tagged design.
• Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada’s head of corporate social responsibility, conceded in a letter to MACCIA that its 'Toe Ring Sandals' were inspired by traditional Kolhapuri chappals.
• Prada will convene a virtual meeting on July 11 with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture and Kolhapuri craftsmen to negotiate co-branding, compensation, formal artisans’ recognition.
• Bollywood icons Kareena Kapoor and Neena Gupta have used social media to showcase authentic Kolhapuri chappals and call for proper credit and support for the artisans.
• The dispute has reignited global discussions on cultural appropriation, the effectiveness of Geographical Indication protections and mechanisms to ensure fair benefit for indigenous craftsmen.