Karnataka Minister Demands Recognition for Kolhapuri Artisans After Prada Controversy

The Italian luxury brand Prada faced widespread criticism for showcasing sandals at Milan Fashion Week resembling traditional Kolhapuri chappals, which are handcrafted by artisans primarily in Maharashtra and Karnataka. Prada's sandals were priced around Rs 1.2 lakh, sparking accusations of cultural appropriation and design theft, leading to an apology from Prada's executives after pressure from Indian authorities and social media. Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge highlighted that many artisans crafting these chappals live in Karnataka and emphasized the need to recognize their legacy and contributions, not just acknowledge inspiration. He recalled the joint Geographical Indication (GI) tag secured by Karnataka and Maharashtra to protect the heritage and stressed that GI recognition alone is insufficient, calling for greater investment in skilling, branding, and market access for artisans. The controversy has also prompted broader discussions about the challenges faced by traditional artisans who do not benefit from the commercialization of their designs by global luxury brands. This episode underscores the importance of cultural entrepreneurship and fair recognition for the craftspeople behind these traditional products.