Prada to launch $930 'Made in India' Kolhapuri sandals after backlash

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete December 12, 2025 at 11:29 AM

AI Summary

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Prada will launch a $930 "Made in India" Kolhapuri sandal collection in February 2026, following criticism for previously showcasing similar designs without acknowledging their Indian origin. The Italian luxury brand will produce 2,000 pairs in Maharashtra and Karnataka, partnering with state-backed entities. The agreement, signed during the Italy-India Business Forum 2025, involves training local artisans in both India and Italy. The initiative, titled 'Prada Made in India – Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals', aims to blend traditional craftsmanship with Prada's manufacturing techniques. The sandals will be sold online and in 40 Prada stores worldwide.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Lorenzo Bertelli 50% Kolhapuri ×250% Maharashtra ×360% India ×470% Prada ×780%

Keywords

kolhapuri sandals 100% prada 90% cultural appropriation 70% made in india 70% artisans 60% luxury brand 60% karnataka 50% maharashtra 50% footwear design 40%

Sentiment Analysis

Positive

Score: 0.30

Source Transparency

Source

BBC News - World

Political Lean

Center (0.00)

Far LeftCenterFar Right

Classification Confidence

90%

Geographic Perspective

India

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).

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kolhapuri sandals prada cultural appropriation made in india artisans luxury brand karnataka maharashtra footwear design

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