After Prada’s ‘Inspired’ Design, Kolhapuri Chappals Add QR Codes To Prove Origin And Preserve Legacy

The iconic Kolhapuri chappal, Maharashtra’s beloved handcrafted leather sandal, is getting a high-tech upgrade—and a little help from controversy. These stylish, flat sandals, with roots tracing back to the 12th century, are now equipped with QR codes to prove their authenticity and honour the artisans who keep the tradition alive.

Chappals With A Royal And Revolutionary Past

Earlier this year, global fashion giant Prada launched a sandal design that looked too similar to the traditional Kolhapuri chappal. The design resembled the iconic design so much that many couldn’t help but call it out. Artisans and culture experts accused Prada of borrowing the look without giving credit where it was due.

Prada responded, saying the sandals were merely inspired by Indian handmade footwear and were still in development. In a surprising turn, a Prada team even flew down to Kolhapur to learn about the original design, meet the makers, and understand the centuries-old tradition.

This instance brought international attention to this locally celebrated sandal. Made with naturally tanned leather and intricate hand-weaving, these sandals have been crafted by families in Kolhapur, Sangli, and Solapur for generations.

Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj also helped popularise this chappal as part of the Swadeshi movement, Business Standard reported. Finally, in 2019, the chappals received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This tag implies that only registered artisans from specific districts in Maharashtra and Karnataka can legally produce and market them using traditional techniques.

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Kolhapuri Chappals Go Digital With QR Codes

The Leather Industries Development Corporation of Maharashtra, or LIDCOM, has now included QR codes on every pair of genuine Kolhapuris. This step will make sure buyers know if they are purchasing the real thing or fake products.

According to the Business Standard reports, buyers can simply scan the QR code and access:

• The name and location of the artisan or self-help group
• The district where it originated
• The traditional techniques and natural materials used
• The status of the GI certification

This feature offers transparency by putting the customer in touch with the people who created the product. It will also help them avoid low-quality imitations made with synthetic materials that take advantage of the chappal’s reputation.

With the help of QR codes, Kolhapuri chappals are confidently stepping into the future.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva/Wirestock