Nagpur, Dec 11 (NationPress) The esteemed luxury brand Prada has entered into a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two Maharashtra government enterprises, LIDCOM (Sant Rohidas Charmudyog and Charmakar Vikas Mahamandal) and LIDCAR (Dr. Babu Jagjivanram Charmudyog Vikas Mahamandal), aiming to elevate the rich tradition of Indian leather craftsmanship, specifically the Kolhapuri chappal, to a global audience.

This significant agreement was formalized at the Italian Consulate in Mumbai during the Italy-India Business Council meeting.

The partnership is intended to create footwear that marries traditional, centuries-old manufacturing techniques with Prada’s modern and sophisticated design philosophy.

This collaboration aims to foster a fresh dialogue between India's illustrious heritage and contemporary luxury fashion by integrating traditional craftsmanship with Prada's cutting-edge designs and high-quality materials.

The collection will be branded under the 'Prada Made in India Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals' initiative, with the framework, execution, and guidelines meticulously defined in the MoU.

The footwear will be produced in India by skilled artisans specializing in Kolhapuri chappals from Maharashtra and Karnataka.

This unprecedented partnership seeks to empower traditional Kolhapuri craftsmanship with the support of a prestigious luxury fashion house.

The exclusive collection is set to launch in February 2026 and will be available in 40 Prada stores worldwide, along with its official website, according to a government statement.

The initiative has garnered robust support from the Maharashtra government, under the active leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, as well as Ministers Sanjay Shirsat and Madhuri Misal, as stated by the government.

Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat remarked, "This agreement will benefit countless artisans, professionals, and entrepreneurs across India. This special collection will provide a new direction to the art of Indian artisans and enhance the global recognition of their skills."

Prerana Deshbhratar, Managing Director of LIDCOM stated, "This partnership is vitally important for honoring generations of artisans who maintain traditional art and for granting their skills appropriate global visibility. A global brand collaborating directly with artisans in Maharashtra and Karnataka ensures their talents are acknowledged and fully credited to these creators."

Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of CSR at Prada Group, commented: "This partnership represents a new definition of cultural exchange. We are dedicated to giving the unparalleled art of Indian artisans its deserving place in the contemporary world."

K.M. Vasundhara, Managing Director of LIDCAR, expressed that this collaboration will "open extensive avenues for training, employment, and global opportunities" for the chappal-makers.

The Kolhapuri chappals were awarded the GI tag in 2019, solidifying their authenticity and cultural significance.

Traditionally crafted across eight districts in two states, Maharashtra: Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Solapur, and Karnataka: Belagavi, Bagalkot, Dharwad, Bijapur.