A pair of Kolhapuri-style chappals just walked the Prada runway with a price tag of ₹1.16 lakh.
Born in the town of Kolhapur, Maharashtra, these chappals were originally crafted for royalty in the 12th century.
Worn by saints, kings, farmers, artists, and freedom fighters — Kolhapuris were made to endure. Not just the road, but time itself.
Every pair is handmade using sun-dried leather, stitched with thread and memory, not machines.
Over time, they became part of everyday life. From temple visits to wedding rituals, from village chowks to city streets.
Different regions gave them different names: Paitaan, Kapashi, Kachkadi, Bakkalnali. But the soul always pointed back to Kolhapur.
But for the cobblers who pass this craft down through generations, recognition never came with awards, only with worn soles and loyal customers.
So when a global brand showcases Kolhapuri-inspired design, it isn’t a trend. It’s an echo of something ancient and alive.
Their value was never in numbers. It was in the stories they carried. The hands that shaped them. The feet that wore them.
So yes, it’s nice to see them on a global runway. But they’ve always walked proudly, on every galli, ghat, and gully of India.
Rs 1.16 lakh doesn’t make them special. Their legacy already did.