Prada Partners with LIDCOM & LIDCAR to Globalize Kolhapuri Chappals

Mumbai, Dec 2025: In a major step to take the legacy of Indian traditional leather craft Kolhapuri chappals to a global audience, Prada has signed a memorandum of understanding with LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industry & Leather Development Corporation) and LIDCAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Development Corporation). The agreement was signed at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai on the occasion of the Italy–India Chamber of Commerce event.

Traditional Kolhapuri chappals, which have been crafted for centuries, will now be reimagined with Prada’s contemporary luxury designs. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern high-fashion aesthetics, Kolhapuri artisans will receive a global platform and contemporary recognition. This exclusive collection will be available from February 2026 across 40 Prada outlets worldwide and on the brand’s official website.

The initiative has received strong support from the Maharashtra government, with guidance from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, and Social Justice Minister of State Madhuri Misal. The agreement was made possible under the guidance of Principal Secretary and LIDCOM Chairman Dr. Harshdeep Kamble and strategic planning by LIDCOM Managing Director Prerna Deshbratar.

Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat said the partnership will benefit numerous artisans, entrepreneurs, and businesses across India. He emphasized that the collection would provide new directions to Indian craftsmanship and increase international recognition of their skills.

Prerna Deshbratar, MD of LIDCOM, stated that the collaboration honors generations of artisans preserving traditional skills and gives their craftsmanship global visibility. Working directly with a world-class brand ensures proper credit goes to the artisans.

Dr. K.M. Vasundhara, MD of LIDCAR, added that the partnership opens up extensive opportunities for training, employment, and international exposure, highlighting the centuries-old expertise of artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka.

Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Prada Group, described the partnership as a “new chapter in cultural exchange,” committed to bringing Indian artisans’ unparalleled craftsmanship to the modern global stage.

The agreement outlines the project framework, implementation plan, and guiding principles for the collection, titled “Prada Made in India, Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals.” Artisans from Maharashtra (Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur) and Karnataka (Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad, Bijapur) will craft the chappals in India using traditional methods combined with Prada’s contemporary designs and premium materials.

Kolhapuri chappals were granted Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2019, preserving their authenticity and reinforcing their cultural importance. This collaboration marks a fusion of India’s rich heritage with modern luxury fashion, bringing the craft to global prominence.

Team Maverick