Overview

• Prada has formally recognized its Milan runway sandals as inspired by Kolhapuri chappals and pledged to engage local craft communities in design dialogue
• The brand is negotiating with MACCIA and artisan groups to secure formal credit, royalty arrangements and potential sandal production in Kolhapur
• Indian sellers report a fivefold increase in Kolhapuri sandal sales over recent days as global interest in the heritage footwear surges
• MACCIA has proposed setting up an artisan support fund financed by royalties and training Kolhapuri cobblers to craft Prada’s line locally
• Artisan leaders and policymakers are advancing calls for stronger GI enforcement and mandatory origin labeling to safeguard traditional crafts