Made in India by expert artisans in the regions of Maharashtra and Karnataka, where traditional Kolhapuri Chappals are handcrafted, the collection combines traditional techniques with Prada's contemporary design and premium materials to create a unique dialogue between Indian heritage and the expression of modern luxury. This collection was developed in collaboration with LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd) and LIDKAR (Dr Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd), the Indian government organizations focused on safeguarding, promoting and developing the Indian leather industry and the heritage of Kolhapuri Chappals.
Prada has launched a limited edition sandal collection inspired by India's Kolhapuri Chappals, handcrafted by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka in collaboration with LIDCOM and LIDKAR. The project also includes a fully funded three-year training program for 180 artisans, supporting design skills, global exposure and the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.
This is a new chapter in Prada's “Made In…” project, launched more than a decade ago to celebrate artisanal excellence worldwide. Their goal is to identify and collaborate with master craftsmen on contemporary and innovative designs that embody an unparalleled standard of quality that transcends geographic boundaries.
Prada Group is also pleased to announce the founding of a training program dedicated to artisans from the eight districts of India where Kolhapuri Chappals are traditionally made. The program is designed to strengthen technical and design skills, enabling artisans to create products that meet the changing needs of the market, while ensuring the continued relevance of this traditional craft.
This initiative, which will be funded entirely by Prada, including through proceeds from the sale of the limited edition sandal collection, reflects the Group's long-standing commitment to reinvesting in education and culture. The program will last three years in structured modules of six months duration and will reach a total of 180 artisans during the period. Applications are open to artisans between 18 and 45 years of age, and the program was developed in collaboration with LIDCOM and LIDKAR, and also in association with leading design institutes – the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Karnataka Institute of Leather and Fashion Technology (KILT), where the training courses will be conducted.
The program brings together design fundamentals, digital skills and an understanding of market trends and needs, guiding participants throughout the entire journey: from product development to market readiness. A strong emphasis is placed on practical learning, with dedicated studios at each institute equipped with the necessary tools and materials to support practical training.
The first program will begin this summer. Applications for the initial 30 seats (15 in NIFT and 15 in KILT) will open in May 2026 on LIDCOM, LIDKAR and the institutes' websites. At the end of each six-month module, selected participants will have the opportunity to continue their training at the Prada Group Academy in Italy, where they will further develop their skill and technical expertise while learning directly from the Group's Masters.
“Education is a fundamental pillar in ensuring that craft remains a living practice. With this training programme, we are translating a shared cultural dialogue into a concrete opportunity for learning and growth. Supporting artisans through structured training means safeguarding knowledge, strengthening local communities and ensuring that traditional crafts continue to evolve and thrive.” commented Lorenzo Bertelli, director of Corporate Social Responsibility of the Prada Group.
Ms. Prerna Deshbhratar, IAS, Director General, LIDCOMstated: “This collaboration will enable sustainable global positioning of our traditional craftsmanship, fostering cross-cultural design dialogue and long-term value for artisans.”
Dr. KM Vasundhara, Director General of LIDKARechoed, “This collaboration with the Prada Group represents a significant step towards elevating traditional crafts from Karnataka to the global stage, while reinforcing our commitment to the wellbeing of artisans through responsible and sustainable CSR initiatives.”
Siddalingappa B. Pujari, Director of KILTcommented: “Partnering with a world-renowned luxury brand marks an important milestone for KILT. This collaboration will allow our artisans to be exposed to international design sensibilities, changing market demands and cutting-edge technologies. It is a step towards uniting traditional craftsmanship with global excellence, ensuring that our artisans remain competitive, innovative and future-ready.”
Tanu Kashyap, IAS, Director General of NIFT, stated, “Prada's initiative to reach out to Kolhapuri artisans and collaborate with NIFT, India's premier academic institute for design education, marks a transformative step in taking this IG-tagged craft to the global stage. It is time for traditional Indian crafts to take their rightful place on the global stage and be recognized as the new luxury. The initiative will empower artisans to carry forward the legacy of artisanal and handmade traditions in the commercial arena, representing the true essence of fashion sustainable and heritage”.
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Fiber2Fashion News Desk (RM)
