Jammu, July 6 -- On June 2025, Milan's fashion week witnessed a moment that sparked global debate. Italian luxury giant Prada unveiled its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection, which included footwear strongly inspired by India's iconic Kolhapuri chappals. These open-toed, handmade leather sandals, traditionally crafted from tan buffalo hide and natural dyes like babul bark, have been a symbol of western Maharashtra's cultural heritage for centuries. Recognised under India's Geographical Indications (GI) system since 2019, the Kolhapuri chappals represent not just a fashion accessory but a living craft embodying tradition, skill, and community identity.

The backlash was immediate. Fashion pundits, social commentators, and guardians of ...