Luxury fashion house Prada has launched a three-year training program to support Kolhapuri chappal artisans in India, aiming to preserve and enhance the traditional craft.

Addressing Past Concerns

The initiative follows a controversy surrounding Prada’s release of sandals resembling the iconic Indian footwear. The company faced criticism for selling a design retailing at 750 euros, which was perceived as cultural appropriation without benefiting the original artisans.

Partnerships and Agreements

Prada responded by engaging with the artisan community and government organizations. They signed a Memorandum of Understanding with LIDCOM and LIDKAR, organizations dedicated to the development of the Indian leather industry and the preservation of Kolhapuri chappals, which received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2019.

Program Details

Training Modules

The fully funded program will train 180 artisans with updated design and technical skills. Six-month modules will cover design fundamentals, digital literacy, and current market trends, with a focus on hands-on training.

Funding and International Opportunities

The initiative is financed by proceeds from the sale of Prada’s limited-edition sandal collection. Outstanding participants will have the opportunity to continue their education at the Prada Group Academy in Italy.

Statements from Leaders

Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group’s head of corporate social responsibility, emphasized the importance of education in sustaining craftsmanship, stating the program translates a cultural dialogue into a tangible opportunity for growth.

Prerna Deshbhratar, managing director of LIDCOM, highlighted the program’s potential to position traditional craftsmanship on a global stage.

Collaboration with Design Institutes

The training program is being implemented in partnership with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) and the Karnataka Institute of Leather & Fashion Technology (KILT). Applications for the first 30 seats will open next month for artisans aged 18 to 45.

Prada’s Commitment to Artisanal Excellence

This project aligns with Prada’s “Made In…” initiative, launched to celebrate artisanal excellence worldwide. The company reported revenues of 5.72 billion euros in 2024, a 5 percent increase from the previous year.