Mumbai, 12 December 2025: A landmark agreement has been signed between global luxury brand Prada and two Indian government bodies, LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation) and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation), to take the traditional art of Kolhapuri chappal-making to the international fashion market.
The MoU was signed at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai during the Italy–India Business Council meeting. Under this collaboration, Kolhapuri chappals will be developed by combining centuries-old handmade techniques with Prada’s modern and contemporary design style.
The exclusive collection will be released in February 2026 across Prada’s 40 retail stores worldwide as well as on its official website.
Maharashtra’s support has been key to the initiative, with guidance from senior state leaders and administrative heads. LIDCOM Chairperson and Principal Secretary Dr. Harshdeep Kamble and Managing Director Prerana Deshbhratar played important roles in planning and enabling this partnership.
Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat said the collaboration would benefit a large number of artisans, professionals and entrepreneurs, helping Indian craftsmanship gain stronger international recognition.
LIDCOM MD Prerana Deshbhratar noted that a global brand working directly with artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka gives them long-overdue visibility and ensures that full credit for the craftsmanship goes to the creators.
LIDKAR Managing Director Dr. K. M. Vasundhara said the initiative will open new avenues for training, employment and global exposure for traditional chappal-makers.
From Prada’s side, CSR head Lorenzo Bertelli said the partnership marks a fresh chapter in cultural exchange and reflects Prada’s commitment to giving Indian artisans their rightful place in the modern fashion world.
The agreement covers the project framework titled “Prada – Made in India Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals”, outlining how the designs will be created, produced and marketed. The chappals will be handcrafted in India using traditional techniques, premium materials and Prada’s contemporary design approach, presenting a rich blend of Indian heritage and global luxury fashion.
Kolhapuri chappals are traditionally made across eight districts, Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur (Maharashtra) and Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad, Vijayapura (Karnataka). They received the GI (Geographical Indication) tag in 2019, ensuring authenticity and protecting their cultural identity.
