Prada launches training program for Indian artisans Prada sandals inspired by Indian Kolhapuri chappals. Photo: Footwearnews.com
28.04.2026 1548

Prada launches training program for Indian artisans

The story of Prada and Indian sandals Kolhapuri Chappals, which began with a scandalous emergence The fashion house's spring/summer 26 collection of shoes resembling traditional Indian sandals continued with Prada's extensive collaboration with Indian artisans.

Prada Group announced the launch of a training program for artisans from eight districts in India where Kolhapur sandals are produced. And on Monday, a limited-edition collection of sandals inspired by Kolhapur sandals began selling in 40 boutiques and the brand's online store.

Handcrafted in India by artisans from the Maharashtra and Karnataka regions, these sandals retail for €750.

To develop the collection, the Italian fashion house collaborated with two government organizations in India - LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Ltd) and LIDKAR (Dr Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation Ltd).

These organizations are dedicated to preserving, promoting, and developing the Indian leather industry and the heritage of Kolhapur sandals, which were awarded Geographical Indication status in 2019 to recognize their cultural significance.

The program, fully funded by Prada, including proceeds from the sale of a limited-edition sandal collection, will last three years and consist of structured six-month modules, reaching a total of 180 artisans over this period. It will combine design fundamentals, digital skills, and an understanding of trends and market demands, with an emphasis on hands-on training and skills development.

The first program launches this summer, and applications for the first 30 spots—split equally between NIFT and KILT—will open next month for artisans aged 18 to 45 on the websites of LIDCOM, LIDKAR, and the institutes. 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.

The story of Prada and Indian Kolhapuri Chappals, which began with the scandalous appearance of shoes resembling traditional Indian sandals in the fashion house's spring/summer 26 collection, has continued with great…
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