After several months of talks, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed recently between global luxury brand Prada, and government organisations LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries & Charmakar Development Corporation) and LIDKAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation).

With this, the traditional Kolhapuri chappals will be officially introduced worldover through the luxury brand, Prada. While outlining the strategy of implementation, the MoU was signed at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai during the Italy–India Business Council meeting.

The project takes off with support from the Maharashtra government led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, and Minister of State for Social Justice Madhuri Misal.

Through the project, titled ‘Prada Made in India – Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals’, the footwear collection would blend India’s heritage with luxury fashion. Skilled artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka would manufacture the product, incorporating Prada’s raw materials and unique designs.

Kolhapuri chappals, which received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, are produced in Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, and Solapur in Maharashtra, and Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad, and Bijapur in Karnataka.

The launch of the footwear is expected early next year. The new collection would be available at Prada’s outlets, and on the brand’s official website. – editor@nrifocus.com