After Prada Controversy, Lidcom and Lidkar Reaffirm Ownership of Kolhapuri Chappal Gi Tag

Days after the Prada Controversy About Kolhapuri Chappals, and after a business body from maharashtra engaged in discussion with Prada, Maharashtra-Based Lidcom and Karnataka-Based Lidka Have Reaffured their ownership of the geographical indication (gi) tag for kolhapuri chappals. “No individual or Organization other than us is authorized to english in any discussion, negotiation, or representation with prada or similar entities,” A Press Release Isued Jointly On FRIDY (August 1, 2025) By Lidcom Managing Director Prerna Deshbhratar and Lidkar Managing Director KM Vasundhara stated.

“The traditional and historyic kolhapuri chappal, originating from Maharashtra and Karnataka, has been granted the geographical indication (gi) tag. The official RegisterRered Ownership of Ownership of this Gi Tag Rests Two corporates – Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Limited (Lidcom) and Dr. Babu Jagjivanram Leather Industries Development Corporation Limited Managing Directors of Both Entities, ”It stated.

Kolhapuri Chappals, which receive Royal patronage in the 20th century under chhatrapati shahu maharaj, was made in the erstwhile province under the king. Today, these parts of the earlier province are spores eight districts. Four of them are in Maharashtra, and Four in Karnataka. The tradition of the chappals dates back to the 12th century Saint Tradition.

In June 2025, The Renowned Italian Fashion Brand Prada Presented Its Spring/Summer 2026 Men’s collection.

“Observers noted that the Leather Sandals Worn by a Model in this Show Bore a Striking Resmblance to the Gi-tagged traditional kolhapuri chappals from mahaharashtra. Social Media Platforms And Among Traditional Artisan Communities. Following The Incident, A Group of Lawyers Filed A Public Interest Litigation (Pil) in the Bombay HIGH COURT, Alleging that these ad. Protected Under Gi Registration Constrated a Violation of Intellectual Property Laws. Industry Development Corporations of Maharashtra and Karnataka – are the legitimate stakeholders and hence, soly entitled to Initiate Any Naval Legal Proceedings, “The Press Release Said.

They said that their collective mission goes beyond protecting the geographical indication. “It is also aimed at safeguarding the rights of thirds of local leather artisans and firmly establishing this heroitage on National and International Platforms.”