Prada denies infringement of Kolhapuri GI rights, says no use of term or markings
The notice, issued on July 1, sought ₹500 crore in damages for alleged infringement
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Published: Jul 21, 2025 3:16 PM | 1 min read
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Luxury fashion house Prada has refuted allegations of violating the Geographical Indication (GI) rights associated with Kolhapuri chappals, after its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection featured sandals resembling the iconic Indian footwear.
In response to a legal notice from Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram Leather Industries Development Corporation, a government-backed body and co-owner of the Kolhapuri GI tag, Prada’s legal team clarified that the brand had not used the term ‘Kolhapuri’ or any GI-specific identifiers in the naming, marketing, or presentation of the footwear showcased during its Milan Fashion Week show on June 22.
The notice, issued on July 1, sought ₹500 crore in damages for alleged infringement. While Prada acknowledged, in a media interaction on June 27, that the sandals were inspired by traditional Kolhapuris, it firmly maintained that no direct references were made to the name or the region’s artisanal techniques.
The corporation, meanwhile, has stated that it is currently reviewing its next course of action.
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