Kolhapuri craft puts spring in Prada's step

Prada, Lidcom (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries & Charmakar Development Corporation), and Lidkar (Dr Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation) the two government bodies that safeguard, promote, and develop the Indian leather industry and the heritage of Kolhapuri chappals -

- SHARLEEN D'SOUZA

on Wednesday signed MAHARASHTRA, KARNATAKA ARTISANS GUIDE DESIGN AND PRODUCTION OF PRADA’S UPCOMING COLLECTION a memorandum of understanding at the Consulate General of Italy in Mumbai. The signing took place during the Italy-India Business Forum.

“The agreement sets out the framework, implementation, and guidance of the ‘Prada Made in India x Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals’ project, which will celebrate Indian craftsmanship through a limited-edition collection of sandals,” Prada said in a release.

The footwear will be manufactured in India in collaboration with artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, where traditional Kolhapuri chappals are handcrafted. The project will blend traditional techniques with Prada’s design approach and materials.