When Prada does it, it`s fashion — When I did, it was ‘too desi’!

If you have lived in Mumbai or even Maharashtra, the Kolhapuri chappal, originating from the city of Kolhapur, is the perfect example of regional style statement. It not only boasts of unique design, that is often taken for granted by many, but also comfort factor, while letting your feet breathe. Growing up with this very feeling, Mumbai-based lawyer has worn them for as long as he can remember and even paired it with so many different combinations. 

Kolhapuri chappals go global
So, imagine when a Italian luxury fashion brand like Prada showcases them on the fashion runway for their Men`s Spring Summer 2026 collection, it obviously went viral because people couldn’t believe their eyes. Leons being one of them, explains, “Honestly, I have been wearing Kolhapuris with denims since childhood. In fact, I’d get them specially made from shops in Kolhapur through an uncle. People would laugh, call it “gaothi” or too desi. And now? Prada’s flaunting it down a global runway. Funny how fashion works… what was once “local” is now “luxury” but as always without giving the indigenous craftsmen due credit.” 

It only gets worse because they are reportedly being sold for more than Rs 1 lakh, when it is easily available at only a few hundreds in major metros in India. Interestingly, the handmade Kolhapuri chappals, also has a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which was given to it by the Indian government in 2019. 

For Srushti Bhakare, another Mumbaikar and Gen-Z, who has grown up wearing the chappals like Leons, it is irksome and frustrating. The 24-year-old Maharashtrian, who is extremely proud of her heritage says, “It`s sad to see western luxury brands “borrowing” elements of fashion from the same cultures that are criticised for being too loud and vibrant. Prada`s latest attempt at appropriating Kolhapuri chappals is nothing less than an unpleasant sight to someone who regularly wears the original brown footwear. It is sad, but not surprising, to see the humble boldness to appropriate a culture without giving origin credits to the artisans.” 

While the emotions of Mumbaikars are valid, locals like 29-year-old Aniruddha Katkar, who has been born and brought up in the Maharashtra city but resides in Mumbai, it is about identity. He shares, “Finally the world is catching up on what we`ve known for generations. Prada showing off Kolhapuri chappals for me is like someone discovering the Vada pav and calling it a burger.” With that being said, the Mumbai-based professional adds, “It`s a matter of pride for every Kolhapuri to see such a masterpiece being crafted right here in our own city. Yes, it is stylish but also sentimental for us and Prada should have given the necessary credits to the inspiration.”

Uniqueness of Kolhapuri chappals
While the chappals are synonymous with the region, many from outside of the state may not know what makes then unique. With this writer having worn the Kolhapuri chappals for more than 15 years now, for every kind of traditional occasion, it is an element of showcasing local skill. So, what really makes the classic Kolhapuri chappals unique? Aniruddha states, “For me, what makes them unique is that they’re not just made, they’re crafted with generations of skill. Each pair carries the smell of leather, the soul of a craftsman, and the swag of Kolhapur. They fit any outfit—jeans, kurta, sherwani and more. It has pure versatility with desi roots.”

On the other hand, 30-year-old Leons believes they are “timeless”. He adds, “They go with literally anything like denims, kurta, even streetwear, if you know how to own it. There’s a raw elegance in the craft. It is a fashion statement rooted in identity.” 

It is no different for Srushti, who says Kolhapuri chappals for her are so special because of the effort and artistry that goes behind making a single simple pair. Having worn it all her life, she shares, “The artist customises and specially handcrafts a pair these chappals to match the exact size of your foot. Even though these chappals are made of leather or sometimes a similar material, a pair of these will always be the comfiest, sturdiest and coolest in my collection.” 

It’s time we celebrate India’s indigenous crafts
It is also why she believes it is Kolhapuri chappals and similar crafts are close to the hearts of natives. She expressed, “These arts and skills/techniques are unique and need to be preserved for continued legacy. Even so, whether a craftsmanship is celebrated enough or not, nobody gets the ticket to take over the originality of these crafts and commercialise something that`s not theirs to claim.” 

Being one to celebrate local, Leon`s says it is also high time we as Indians celebrate the Kolhapuri chappals and other such indigenous crafts and craftsmen. He explains, “We wait for the West to validate what we have always had. It is time we celebrated our own artisans and not just on runways or as fashion brands, but by giving them their due.” 

Hitting close to the heart, Aniruddha reminds that India`s soul lives in its handmade magic. “We need to take pride in what we have or else someone else will take it and make it their own masterpiece,” he concludes. 

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