cultural appropriation
Prada Partners with Kolhapuri Chappal Artisans: A $1 Billion Export Opportunity for Traditional Indian Footwear
Dec 11, 2025 11:15 pm CST
Luxury fashion house Prada has formed a groundbreaking partnership with traditional Kolhapuri chappal makers from Maharashtra, India. Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced that this collaboration could potentially generate $1 billion in exports, transforming the centuries-old Indian handicraft into a global luxury fashion product while supporting local artisans.
Vande Mataram: How BJP is Reimagining Bankim Chandra's Legacy for Modern Indian Politics
Dec 08, 2025 09:59 pm CST
This comprehensive analysis examines how Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP are strategically invoking Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyaya's iconic "Vande Mataram" to shape nationalist discourse and political identity ahead of Bengal's 2026 elections. The article explores the historical significance of the anthem, its evolution from literature to political symbol, and the complex implications of selective cultural appropriation in India's diverse political landscape.
American YouTuber Faces Backlash After Filming Traditional Karnataka Cow Dung Festival: Cultural Controversy Explained
Oct 27, 2025 05:20 pm CST
An American YouTuber's controversial filming of Karnataka's traditional Gorehabba festival has sparked outrage across social media. Tyler Oliveira's videos showing the sacred cow dung throwing ritual during Diwali celebrations have been criticized for cultural insensitivity and misrepresenting the religious significance of this ancient purification ceremony. While the content creator defends his actions as non-racist documentation, many Indian viewers argue he deliberately portrayed their tradition as bizarre for Western entertainment.
Controversy Erupts Over Vatican City-Themed Durga Puja Pandal in Ranchi: VHP Alleges Conversion Agenda
Sep 26, 2025 02:53 pm CST
A Durga Puja celebration in Ranchi has become the center of religious controversy after organizers themed their pandal after Vatican City. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad claims this represents a conversion strategy and disrespects Hindu sentiments, while pandal organizers defend their choice as an artistic recreation inspired by a similar 2022 Kolkata installation, emphasizing India's secular traditions.
Kolhapuris To Banarsis: How Trade Deal With UK Put "Brand India" On Global Map
Jul 24, 2025 05:55 pm CST
Protecting and promoting the "Brand India"-- from Kohlapuri Chappals to Banarsi and Chanderi textiles-- is a massive priority in the India-UK Free Trade Agreement set to be signed on Thursday in London.