Prada Partners with Maharashtra Artisans: Transforming Kolhapuri Chappals into Global Luxury

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has highlighted the significant partnership between luxury brand Prada and state entities LIDCOM & LIDKAR as a remarkable achievement for local artisans.

"Global luxury giant @Prada acknowledges that Maharashtra's craftsmanship is truly unique! A groundbreaking MoU has been signed between Prada, LIDCOM & LIDKAR. These exclusive limited-edition sandals created with expertise from skilled Maharashtra artisans will be available starting February 2026 across 40 Prada stores globally and through their official website," Fadnavis announced on X.

He emphasized, "We didn't merely seek recognition for our heritage; we established a genuine business partnership. This exemplifies the essence of 'Make in India' and global recognition for #KolhapuriChappal. Congratulations to our talented artisans—the world has become your stage!"

Artisans in Kolhapur are enthusiastic about the international exposure and future prospects for Kolhapuri chappals. This collaboration is considered a successful outcome of the government's "Vocal for Local" initiative.

"Vocal for Local" represents Prime Minister Narendra Modi's campaign to encourage citizens to purchase and support locally-made products and domestic industries. This initiative aims to strengthen local economies, promote grassroots entrepreneurship, decrease import dependency, and foster self-sufficiency and sustainable development.

The agreement outlines the structure, implementation, and direction of the "PRADA Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals" project, celebrating Indian craftsmanship through a specialized collection of sandals. These will be produced in India collaboratively with skilled artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka regions, where traditional Kolhapuri Chappals are handcrafted.

By combining traditional techniques with Prada's contemporary design approach and premium materials, the collection creates a unique fusion between Indian heritage and modern luxury expression.

The traditional Kolhapuri Chappals are produced across eight districts: four in Maharashtra (Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur) and four in Karnataka (Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad, Bijapur).

In 2019, Kolhapuri Chappals received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, protecting their authenticity and emphasizing their cultural importance.

Ms Prerna Deshbhratar, IAS, LIDCOM Managing Director stated: "This project emerges from continuous dialogue and shared commitment to honor generations of artisans who have preserved this traditional craft. The collaboration with Prada represents an ethical partnership where a global brand works directly with artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, acknowledging their expertise and giving them full recognition. The Government of Maharashtra through LIDCOM is pleased to support this initiative that showcases India's vision of bringing its rich cultural heritage to global platforms while celebrating the authenticity and legacy of Kolhapuri chappals."

Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, remarked: "Our collaboration with LIDCOM and LIDKAR originates from meaningful cultural exchange, where every perspective contributed to developing not just a product, but a comprehensive initiative. We are proud to announce this collection's launch, and we remain committed to developing training programs supporting Indian artisans and ensuring their exceptional craftsmanship maintains its relevance in today's evolving industry."