Mumbai, July 4 — Italian luxury fashion house Prada has come under legal fire in India, with a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Bombay High Court alleging the unauthorised use of the traditional Kolhapuri chappal design in its high-end footwear collection.
The PIL, filed by six Pune-based lawyers, contends that Prada’s recently launched ‘toe-ring sandals,’ showcased in the brand’s spring/summer collection and priced at around ₹1 lakh a pair, closely resemble the iconic Kolhapuri chappals a symbol of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
Kolhapuri chappals are protected under India’s Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, granting exclusive rights over their design and production to artisans from designated regions in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
“The court shall also order a permanent injunction against Prada’s unauthorised GI use and direct the company to compensate the artisans’ community for reputational and economic damages,” the PIL stated.
The petitioners have demanded a public apology from Prada acknowledging its alleged appropriation of the Kolhapuri chappal design and sought a temporary injunction to stop the brand from marketing, selling, or exporting the contested sandals.
According to the PIL, Prada has “privately accepted” that its collection was inspired by Indian artisans but has not made any formal public statement or offered compensation. “The private acknowledgement appears to be merely a superficial attempt to deflect criticism,” the PIL alleged, urging the court to safeguard the rights of local artisans and ensure they receive due recognition and financial restitution.
The case is seen as significant for the protection of India’s traditional crafts, highlighting growing tensions between global fashion houses and indigenous artisans over intellectual property and cultural heritage.
PIL in Bombay High Court Accuses Prada of Copying Kolhapuri Chappals, Seeks Compensation for Indian Artisans
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