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Karnataka’s IT/BT Minister Priyank Kharge recently spoke about the important role that Karnataka plays in the making of Kolhapuri chappals following a global debate over a new luxury product by ‘Prada’. The Italian fashion brand released a sandal that closely resembles the traditional Kolhapuri chappal priced at around ₹1.2 lakh and at first no credit was given to Indian artisans.
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Kharge pointed out that although Kolhapuri chappals are often linked to Maharashtra, many artisans from Karnataka specially from regions like Athani, Nippani, Chikkodi, Raibag, Belagavi, Bagalkot and Dharwad are also involved in their production. He explained that while serving as Karnataka’s Social Welfare Minister there was an effort by Maharashtra to claim the Geographical Indication (GI) tag solely. However, Karnataka successfully ensured that both states received credit for the craft.
So, Prada is selling what are essentially Kolhapuri chappals for ₹1.2 lakh a pair.
Few know this: a large number of the artisans who make these iconic chappals actually live in Karnataka, in Athani, Nippani, Chikkodi, Raibag and other parts of Belagavi, Bagalkot and Dharwad.…
— Priyank Kharge / ಪ್ರಿಯಾಂಕ್ ಖರ್ಗೆ (@PriyankKharge)
So, Prada is selling what are essentially Kolhapuri chappals for ₹1.2 lakh a pair.
Few know this: a large number of the artisans who make these iconic chappals actually live in Karnataka, in Athani, Nippani, Chikkodi, Raibag and other parts of Belagavi, Bagalkot and Dharwad.…— Priyank Kharge / ಪ್ರಿಯಾಂಕ್ ಖರ್ಗೆ (@PriyankKharge) June 29, 2025
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The minister stressed that simply having a GI tag is not enough. He called for more support to local artisans in the form of skill development, branding, design improvements and access to global markets as well. According to Kharge such steps would help artisans earn fair wages and gain recognition for their work too.
He also urged international brands to acknowledge the communities that inspire their designs, rather than ignoring the people who have been keeping such traditions alive for generations.
