After Prada controversy, LIDCOM and LIDKAR reaffirm ownership of Kolhapuri Chappal GI Tag

Days after Prada’s discussions about Kolhapuri Chappals and a business organ of Maharashtra, after meeting with Prada, Maharashtra -based Lidcom and Karnataka -based Lidkar, Kolhapuri Chappals re -confirmed the label ownership. “No other individual or organization, Prada or similar international organizations, does not have the authority to negotiate, negotiate or represent,” Lidcom General Manager Prerna Deshbhratar and Lidkar General Manager Km Vasundhara said.

The traditional and historical Kolhapuri Chappal, Geographical Indication (GI) label, which originated from Maharashtra and Karnataka. This officially registered property of this GI label is based only on two companies – Sant Rohidas Leather Industry and Lidic) and Dr. Babu Jagishaation Limited (Dr. Babu Jagvan Corpports Limited – and Dr. Babu Jagvan – and Dr. Babu Jagvan Corporation Limited – It was clarified by the administrator directors of both organizations. ”

Kolhapuri Chappals, who took royal auspices in the 20th century under the Chhahatrapati Shahu Maharaj, was held in the old state under the king. Today, these parts of the previous state have spread to eight regions. Four of these are in Mahashtra and four in Karnataka. The Chappals tradition dates back to the 12th century saint tradition.

In June 2025, the famous Italian fashion brand Prada presented its Spring/Summer 2026 men’s collection.

“Observer stated that the leather boats worn by a model in this show showed a striking similarity to the traditional Kolhapuri Chappals from Maharashtra. This similarity created strong reactions between the traditional artist communities. In accordance with the GI record, it created a violation of intellectual property laws on July 16, 2025, which only registered GI owners – ie Maharashtra and Karnataka’s leather industry development companies, legal stakeholders and any legal case were encouraged to initiate any legal case.

They said that their collective mission went beyond protecting the geographical indicator. “It also aims to protect the rights of thousands of local leather artisans and to establish this legacy firmly on national and international platforms.”