They say art and music know no boundaries, and we think the same holds true for fashion. Luxury label Prada has collaborated with Indian government organizations LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd) and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd) for the “PRADA Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals” project. While Prada brings its Italian legacy of craftsmanship, brand value, and decades of fashion expertise, the Indian organizations bring heritage, culture, and technique, backed by their work safeguarding, promoting, and developing the Indian leather industry. The deal was sealed at the Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai on the occasion of the Italy–India Business Forum.
The limited-edition collection aims to celebrate Indian craftsmanship by placing the humble footwear style, a staple for centuries (around since the 12th–13th century), on a fashion-forward global platform. The pieces will be manufactured in India in collaboration with skilled artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, where traditional Kolhapuri chappals are handcrafted. Prada’s contribution is contemporary design and premium materials, creating a luxurious product for quality-and-tradition-loving fashion lovers, shaped by a unique dialogue between Indian heritage and modern luxury expression.
Ms. Prerna Deshbhratar, I.A.S., LIDCOM Managing Director, commented, “The collaboration with Prada reflects an ethical partnership where a global brand works directly with artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, recognizing their expertise and giving them full credit. The Government of Maharashtra, through LIDCOM, is happy to support this initiative, which highlights India’s vision of taking its rich cultural heritage to global platforms while celebrating the authenticity and legacy of Kolhapuri chappals.”
Echoing a similar sentiment, Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, said, “Our collaboration with LIDCOM and LIDKAR stems from a meaningful cultural exchange, where every voice contributed to creating not just a product, but a broader initiative. We are proud to announce the launch of this collection, and we are committed to developing training programs that support Indian artisans and ensure their exceptional craftsmanship secures its place in today’s evolving industry.”
The age-old Kolhapuri chappals will get a global spotlight when the collection debuts in February 2026 across 40 select Prada stores and on Prada’s official e-commerce platform.
