After Prada recently stirred a controversy by featuring footwear closely resembling Kolhapuri chappals and igniting intellectual property right debate, the Italian luxury fashion house is likely to pay a visit to the state next week. The visit will focus on identifying sustainable local supply chain partners for Kolhapuri chappal.
The Prada team gave the commitment during a virtual meeting with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture (MCCIA). The objective of the visit is to identify supply partners and other local artisan manufacturers, who adhere to transparency and environmental, social and governance standards, said the Prada team. MCCIA president Lalit Gandhi said they will facilitate this initiative by connecting Prada with reputed artisan clusters and compliant manufacturers.
The Prada team further expressed intent to launch a limited-edition 'Made in India' Kolhapuri-inspired collection in partnership with local artisans. To lend weight to the idea, it showcased successful global examples of prior 'Made in' campaigns. The MCCIA further proposed collaboration on heritage crafts from the state, such as Paithani weaving and Himroo textiles.
The meeting also focused on cultural recognition, ethical sourcing and collaboration with Maharashtra’s artisan community, particularly the Kolhapuri chappal industry, which inspired elements of Prada’s Spring Summer 2026 men’s collection, said a release by the MCCIA.
The Prada team comprised five members, including Lorenzo Bertelli (corporate social responsibility head), Christopher Bugg (global director of communications) Roberto Massardi (chief business development officer) Francesca Secondari and Valentina Isme Piccato. The MCCIA was represented by Dilip Gupta (regional vice-president, western Maharashtra), Sanjay Shete (Kolhapur Chamber of Commerce president), Shivajirao Pawar (Kolhapur District Footwear Association president), among others.
