Kareena Kapoor Slams Prada: The Authentic Story Behind ‘My OG Kolapuri’ Sandals

Hyderabad: Kareena Kapoor Khan recently took a stand against luxury brand Prada, accusing them of borrowing from India’s traditional Kolhapuri chappals. On Instagram, while enjoying a family trip in London, she posted a photo of her own metallic silver Kolhapuri sandals, playfully captioning it, “Sorry not Prada… (laughing emoji) but my OG Kolapuri (heart emoji).”

This little jab came after Prada showcased their “Toe Ring Sandals” at the Men’s Spring/Summer 2026 fashion show in Milan, which many felt closely resembled Kolhapuri chappals—sandals that have been handcrafted in India for over 800 years. Despite their beauty and significance, Prada did not credit the original design, stirring up accusations of cultural appropriation.

In response, a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Bombay High Court, aiming to seek compensation for the Kolhapuri artisans and to emphasize the need for recognition of their craft. Under pressure, Prada later acknowledged that their sandals were “inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear.”

Lorenzo Bertelli, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Prada Group, expressed the brand’s respect for Indian artisanship. He stated they intend to discuss possible collaborations with artisans and representatives from the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce to address these concerns.

The backlash has sparked wider conversations about cultural sensitivity in fashion. Experts argue that brands should honor their inspirations and give credit where it’s due. Culturally significant designs deserve recognition, and incidents like this highlight the ongoing struggle between traditional craftsmanship and modern consumerism.

Kareena’s Instagram post has resonated with many, earning her a wave of support for backing authentic artisanship. Fans appreciate her choice of heritage over high-end labels—and that speaks volumes in an age where authenticity is increasingly valued.

In the fashion world, this type of controversy isn’t new but serves as a reminder of the responsibility brands have when drawing from diverse cultures. As conversations about cultural appropriation grow, it’s clear that more brands must engage with the communities they draw inspiration from, ensuring respect and recognition for age-old traditions.



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