Nagpur, Dec 11 (LatestNewsX) – Italian luxury house Prada has inked a landmark Memorandum of Understanding with two Maharashtra‑based government entities: LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Charmudyog and Charmakar Vikas Mahamandal) and LIDCAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivanram Charmudyog Vikas Mahamandal). The deal is designed to elevate the traditional Kolhapuri chappal, an iconic leather craft from India, onto the global stage.
The formal signing took place at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai during a meeting of the Italy‑India Business Council. Prada’s plan is to fuse centuries‑old leather‑working techniques with the brand’s contemporary design language, creating footwear that marries heritage and modernity.
Under the project titled “Prada Made in India Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals,” the agreement outlines the framework, execution steps, and guidelines. The shoes will be handcrafted in India by skilled artisans from Maharashtra and Karnataka, ensuring that traditional craftsmanship receives the spotlight and premium backing of a world‑class fashion house.
The debut collection is slated for launch in February 2026, and will be stocked in 40 Prada boutiques worldwide as well as on the official Prada website, according to the government’s release.
The initiative has strong support from the Maharashtra government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with Minister Sanjay Shirsat and Madhuri Misal. Minister Shirsat emphasized that the agreement will benefit countless artisans, professionals, and entrepreneurs across India and will provide a fresh direction for the country’s artistic heritage, bolstering recognition abroad.
LIDCOM’s Managing Director, Prerana Deshbhratar, noted that the partnership honors generations of artisans and offers them deserved global exposure, with a major brand collaborating directly with creators in Maharashtra and Karnataka.
“Through this collaboration we are redefining cultural exchange,” said Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of CSR at Prada Group. “We are committed to giving Indian artisans’ incomparable art its rightful place in the contemporary world.”
K.M. Vasundhara, Managing Director of LIDCAR, highlighted that the partnership will open extensive pathways for training, employment, and worldwide opportunities for chappal‑makers.
Kolhapuri chappals were granted a Geographical Indication tag in 2019, affirming their authenticity and cultural significance. The craft is traditionally produced across eight districts in two states: Maharashtra’s Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, and Solapur; and Karnataka’s Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad, and Bijapur.
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