Kolhapuri Sandals: From Craftsmanship to International Spotlight
New Delhi, vrijdag, 4 juli 2025.
Following the Prada sandal controversy, Indian shoe brands have seized a unique opportunity to profile their traditional Kolhapuri sandals internationally. By leveraging national pride and heritage value, small e-commerce platforms like Shopkop and Niira have seen their sales rise spectacularly - up to five times the normal turnover. The controversy surrounding Prada’s design, which closely resembled centuries-old Indian sandal models, has drawn attention to these artisanal shoes with a history dating back to the 12th century. Entrepreneurs see this as a strategic chance to strengthen the global positioning of their traditional product while emphasising the value of Indian cultural heritage.
The Rise of Kolhapuri Sandals in the International Fashion World
After the Prada sandal scandal, Indian shoe brands have seized a unique opportunity to profile their traditional Kolhapuri sandals internationally. Rahul Parasu Kamble from e-commerce platform Shopkop saw the sales of artisanal sandals rise to 5 times the normal turnover, amounting to 50,000 rupees (around £4,250) in just three days [1].
National Pride as a Sales Strategy
The controversy surrounding Prada’s design has drawn attention to these ancient artisanal shoes with a history dating back to the 12th century. Nishant Raut, founder of Niira, sees this as an opportunity to ask: ‘Why couldn’t an Indian Kolhapuri brand become just as important as a Birkenstock?’ [1][2]
Commercial Opportunity for Local Artisans
Various Indian brands have directly seized the situation. Ira Soles from Mumbai now advertises ‘handmade brown leather Kolhapuris’ for $32 (£27), with the provocative slogan ‘just shown on the Prada catwalk’ [2]. While Prada’s men’s sandals start at $844 (£716), Kolhapuri sandals can be sold for just $12 (£10) [1].
Future Perspectives
The Indian government had already predicted in 2021 that sandal exports could grow to $1 billion (£848 million) per year [1]. Lalit Gandhi, president of the main industry group in Maharashtra, is currently in talks with Prada about a potential limited co-branded collection, which is seen as an opportunity to breathe new life into a ‘dying craft’ [2].