‘₹500 Chappal Sold for ₹1 Lakh’: Radhika Gupta Slams Prada Over Kolhapuri Sandal Controversy

A recent product listing by luxury fashion brand Prada has sparked a cultural and economic debate across India. The brand’s high-end sandals, which resemble traditional Kolhapuri chappals, were priced at nearly ₹1 lakh—drawing widespread criticism. Edelweiss Mutual Fund CEO Radhika Gupta called out the global fashion giant, questioning the undervaluation of Indian craftsmanship and the lack of global recognition for indigenous artisans.

The Core of the Controversy

Prada’s footwear design bore an uncanny resemblance to the iconic Kolhapuri sandals that have been handcrafted in India for generations. Known for their durability and intricate leatherwork, these sandals are typically priced around ₹500 to ₹1500 in India. The massive price markup by Prada triggered reactions on social media, with many accusing the brand of cultural appropriation without due credit to the original makers.

Radhika Gupta’s Bold Statement

Taking to social media, Radhika Gupta quoted the African proverb: “Until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter.” Her post highlighted the need for India to take control of its cultural narratives and give due respect to its traditional artisans. She stressed the importance of branding and marketing for Indian products so that local creators don’t remain invisible while global firms profit from their designs.

What It Means for Indian Artisans

In Tier 2 cities such as Kolhapur, Indore, and Surat—home to many skilled craftspeople—the controversy feels personal. Generations of families have built livelihoods around traditional footwear, textiles, and handicrafts. Yet, their work often lacks recognition beyond local markets. The incident reignites the discussion on whether India is doing enough to protect and promote its cultural economy in the global marketplace.

The Larger Issue: Value vs. Perception

Experts argue that this is not just about pricing but perception. Indian products are often seen as ‘affordable’ rather than ‘premium,’ even when the quality matches global standards. Without proper intellectual property protection, branding, and international marketing support, traditional products remain underrepresented in high-value global fashion circles.

Conclusion

The Prada-Kolhapuri sandal controversy is more than just a fashion story—it’s a reflection of deeper issues around ownership, recognition, and fair value. As conversations grow louder, this could be a wake-up call for India to invest in its traditional industries, not just as heritage, but as globally competitive brands. For artisans in Tier 2 towns and beyond, it’s a reminder that their work deserves the spotlight—not just imitation.