Sun Jul 06 04:35:21 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text, written from an Indian perspective, as requested:

**Kolhapuri Chappals Step into the Global Spotlight Amid Cultural Appropriation Debate**

**Kolhapur, Maharashtra – July 6, 2025** – The humble Kolhapuri chappal, a handcrafted leather sandal with centuries of Indian heritage, has unexpectedly found itself at the center of a global fashion debate. The controversy ignited after Italian luxury brand Prada released a sandal remarkably similar in design to the traditional Kolhapuri, but with a price tag reaching hundreds of dollars.

The move has sparked accusations of cultural appropriation, with many criticizing Prada for allegedly failing to acknowledge the origins of the design or the artisans who have meticulously crafted Kolhapuri chappals for generations. While Prada has not explicitly claimed inspiration, the visual similarities have ignited discussions about intellectual property, artisan recognition, and the crucial need to preserve traditional crafts.

Kolhapuri chappals, originating from Kolhapur in Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka, boast a rich history dating back over 800 years. Historically worn by figures like Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, these sandals are revered for their durability, comfort, and distinctive aesthetic. The sandals are crafted entirely by hand, utilizing a decentralized, home-based production model passed down through generations of families in small towns and villages. Artisans painstakingly cut, shape, and stitch the vegetable-tanned leather, a process using natural tannins, which adds to the unique character of each pair.

Ironically, the Prada controversy has offered a silver lining, thrusting Kolhapuri chappals into the global consciousness. Indian designers and craft advocates are seizing this opportunity to raise awareness of the craft, emphasizing the importance of supporting local artisans and preserving this vital piece of Indian cultural heritage. In a world dominated by fast fashion, the Kolhapuri chappal stands as a testament to slow, sustainable craftsmanship – a product of care, tradition, and history.

[Include images of the artisans at work, the leather tanning process, and the finished chappals.]

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