Geographical Indication

PIL in Bombay High Court Accuses Prada of Copying Kolhapuri Chappals, Seeks Compensation for Indian Artisans

PIL in Bombay High Court Accuses Prada of Copying Kolhapuri Chappals, Seeks Compensation for Indian Artisans

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…
Read More