Kareena Kapoor Trolls Prada For Cultural Appropriation Of Kolhapuri Chappals

Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor on Sunday criticised Prada after the brand's Milan showcase, where they introduced 'Toe Ring Sandals' resembling Indian Kolhapuri chappals. The Bollywood actress took to Instagram, highlighting the similarity and giving a nod to traditional Indian fashion. Her post featured her wearing Kolhapuri chappals, captioned, "Sorry not Prada..but my OG Kolhapuri," sparking discussions about cultural appropriation.

Prada's Men's Spring/Summer 2026 fashion show on June 22 in Milan became controversial due to these sandals. Critics noted the design's resemblance to Kolhapuri chappals, traditionally crafted by artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka. These sandals are known for their braided leather straps and intricate cutwork but were showcased without acknowledging their cultural origins.

Public Interest Litigation Filed

The controversy intensified when a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was filed in the Bombay High Court on July 2. Advocate Ganesh S Hingemire, specialising in Intellectual Property Rights, demanded compensation for Indian artisans from Prada. The PIL also sought a public apology from the brand and urged government intervention to protect traditional Indian designs.

Diet Sabya, an anonymous Instagram account known for exposing fashion imitations, reposted Kareena's story. This account often highlights instances of plagiarism and appropriation within the fashion industry, amplifying Kareena's critique of Prada's design choice.

Prada Responds to Backlash

In response to the backlash over alleged plagiarism of Indian artisans' work, Prada issued a statement. They acknowledged that their latest summer collection drew inspiration from traditional Indian handcrafted footwear with a rich heritage. However, petitioners argue that Prada has yet to offer a formal apology or any compensation to the affected Maharashtrian artisans.

The Kolhapuri chappal is a unisex leather sandal with deep cultural roots in India. Its craftsmanship involves detailed artistry passed down through generations. The lack of credit given by Prada has sparked debates about respecting and recognising cultural heritage in global fashion.

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about cultural appropriation in fashion. It underscores the need for brands to acknowledge and respect the origins of designs they draw inspiration from, ensuring fair recognition and compensation for traditional artisans worldwide.