New Delhi: Italian luxury brand Prada is facing legal heat in India over its ₹1.2 lakh sandals showcased at Milan Fashion Week, which closely resemble traditional Kolhapuri chappals. A PIL filed in the Bombay High Court by IP rights advocate Ganesh Hingmire accuses Prada of cultural appropriation and demands compensation and formal credit for Indian artisans.
The petition highlights that Kolhapuri chappals hold Geographical Indication (GI) status and are deeply rooted in Maharashtra and Karnataka’s cultural heritage. Hingmire called Prada’s private acknowledgment of “Indian inspiration” insufficient and demanded a court-supervised partnership with artisan associations for co-branding and revenue sharing.
The move comes amid broader criticism of global fashion houses like Dior for using Indian designs without proper attribution. Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge also backed the artisans, urging investment in skilling and fair recognition.
Legal experts remain divided on the viability of a GI infringement claim, though they agree the brand could have avoided controversy by crediting the design’s origin.
