Days after the Prada controversy about Kolhapuri chappals, and after a business body from Maharashtra engaged in discussion with Prada, Maharashtra-based LIDCOM and Karnataka-based LIDKAR have reaffirmed their ownership of the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Kolhapuri chappals. “No individual or organization other than us is authorized to engage in any discussion, negotiation, or representation with Prada or similar international entities,” a press release issued jointly on Friday (August 1, 2025) by LIDCOM Managing Director Prerna Deshbhratar and LIDKAR Managing Director K.M. Vasundhara stated.
Prada technical team visits Kolhapuri chappal artisans, takes samples, gifted original design similar to their controversial leather sandals
“The traditional and historic Kolhapuri chappal, originating from Maharashtra and Karnataka, has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The officially registered ownership of this GI tag rests solely with two corporations—Sant Rohidas Leather Industries and Charmakar Development Corporation Limited (LIDCOM) and Dr. Babu Jagjivanram Leather Industries Development Corporation Limited (LIDKAR)—as clarified by the Managing Directors of both entities,” it stated.
