Kolhapuri chappals are a timeless pride of India, embodying unmatched style and cultural heritage. Their unique craftsmanship and ability to reflect individuality set them apart, unrivalled by any Indian or international brand. Today, Kolhapuri chappals are in focus as they are currently at the center of controversy in India, as the famous Italian luxury brand Prada presented a slipper that looks exactly like Kolhapuri. Social media is abuzz with growing demands for the company to provide compensation, royalties, or credit to Indian producers. Here’s a look back at the history of its making and the controversies surrounding the product.
Film Star Kareena Kapoor And Neena Gupta Takes A Dig At Prada
Actress Kareena Kapoor Khan reacted to this controversy on her Instragram handle. Kareena shared a cosy glimpse of her holiday in a fun way on her Instagram story, where she was seen sitting with her legs stretched out on a sun lounger and metallic silver Kolhapuri chappals on her feet. She wrote in the caption, “Sorry, it’s not Prada… (laughter and punch emojis) but my original Kolhapuris (heart emoji).”
Neena Gupta recently made an indirect comment on the Prada brand through a video that came out a day after Kareena Kapoor Khan criticised the brand. On Monday, the senior actress posted a video on Instagram where she flaunted her handmade Kolhapuri chappals, which were gifted to her by late actor Laxmikant Berde.
View this post on Instagram---Advertisement---
The ‘Metro in Dino’ actress captioned the post, “Real toh real hota hai.”
Prada’s Ramp Issue
When international fashion brand Prada presented a slipper that looked exactly like a Kolhapuri slipper in its ramp show, Indian social media users immediately noticed the similarity. Now, they are asking Prada to “refund or compensate” Indian producers. While some were happy about this global recognition, many expressed anger that Prada did not give any credit to the original artisans or their communities at the time of ‘copying’.
Proud moment for Kolhapurkar’s
— Kolhapur Survey (@KolhapurSurvey) June 23, 2025
Prada recently featured Kolhapuri chappals, a traditional Indian footwear originating from Kolhapur, on its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear runway. @Prada pic.twitter.com/tFSBDEQOfG
The Indian Price Vs. Prada Price
People like designer Anita Shroff Adajania and fashion critic Diet Sabya also pointed out that Prada’s footwear collection includes slippers similar to Kolhapuri. Netizens reacted sharply to this. Many people said that such slippers are already available in India, and that too at a very low price. But since they did not get the tag of any international brand, they did not get that recognition. The same Prada slippers, which are available for less in India, are now being sold for almost £1,000 (around Rs 1.2 lakh). The same slipper are sold for Rs 500 and above in India.
The Origin
The chappals originated in the city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, and have a history stretching back to the 12th century. Handcrafted from local leather, these chappals are not only durable but also a masterpiece of indigenous beauty and craftsmanship.
It is believed that the city of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, which is located on the banks of the Panchganga River, was once ruled by the descendants of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. This city was considered extremely prosperous and wealthy. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj himself praised the craftsmen who created this slipper. It is said that the making of this slipper was first started by the Saudagar family in 1920.
Kolhapuri’s Global Identity
If there is one positive to take away from this entire controversy, it is that Kolhapuri chappals have now become a topic of discussion internationally. If Indian artisans are empowered with the right platform, support and measures like Fair Trade, they can make the most of this opportunity. But it has to start with “credit”, something no brand can afford to ignore now.
Symbol Of Culture
By the 18th century, Kolhapuri slippers had gained immense popularity, and since then they have been known by their current name. Today, these slippers are known worldwide for their unique designs and excellent handmade art. They are a combination of natural leather, special weaving techniques, unique designs and excellent craftsmanship.
The beauty of these chappals lies not just in their design, but also in the cultural identity associated with them. They were once the pride of rural India, worn by farmers, royal families and common people alike. They are still in vogue today among fashion-lovers, who see them as a blend of tradition and modernity.
Traditionally, these chappals were dyed with vegetable-based dyes, and neither nails nor artificial materials were used. This is why they are considered completely eco-friendly and suitable for long-term use.
The design And Tradition Of The Slippers
Kolhapuri slippers are made from thick and strong full-grain buffalo or cow leather. These slippers are initially hard and do not have any kind of padding, foam insole or fabric lining. They are made of straight leather, which can cause irritation or blisters on the feet in the initial days of wearing. But over time, they absorb your body heat and their colour becomes darker and attractive.
Imitation Of Culture Or Inspiration?
This entire controversy raises an important issue, are global fashion brands just taking inspiration from local and traditional arts or are they imitating them? When the original artists are not credited and supported, it amounts to erasing cultural history. Today, with the growing emphasis on ethical fashion and transparency, it is imperative that big brands openly acknowledge their inspirations and engage with the communities from which the art is born.
