After Prada 'sandal scandal', Indian brands tap heritage pride to boost sales

Indian brands ride Prada sandal row, using nationalist pride and heritage appeal to boost Kolhapuri footwear sales and global recognition.

'Kolhapuri' sandals, an Indian ethnic footwear, are on display at a store in New Delhi, India, July 1, 2025. / REUTERS/Bhawika Chhabra

Indian footwear sellers and artisans are tapping into nationalist pride stoked by the Prada 'sandal scandal' in a bid to boost sales of ethnic slippers with history dating back to the 12th century, raising hopes of reviving a struggling craft.

Sales are surging over the past week for the 'Kolhapuri' sandals that have garnered global attention after Prada sparked a controversy by showcasing similar designs in Milan, without initially crediting the footwear's origins.

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