Bombay High Court Receives PIL Against Prada for Alleged Design Theft
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Bombay High Court accusing the Italian fashion brand Prada of copying the design of the Kolhapuri chappal, a Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged product. The PIL demands compensation and an apology from Prada, highlighting the cultural significance of the Kolhapuri chappal to Maharashtra.
PilPradaKolhapuri ChappalGeographical IndicationBombay High CourtReal Estate MaharashtraJul 04, 2025
A group of six lawyers from Pune has filed a petition against the Prada Group and certain Maharashtra government authorities, stating, “The Kolhapuri chappal is the cultural symbol of Maharashtra.” According to the PIL, Prada’s Spring/Summer collection features ‘Toe ring sandals’ that are strikingly similar in both style and cultural heritage to the GI-registered Kolhapuri chappal, which is priced at over Rs 1 lakh per pair under the European brand.
The PIL was filed by Intellectual Property Rights advocate Ganesh S Hingemire on July 2, 2025. The PIL read, “The matter concerns the misrepresentation, cultural misappropriation, unauthorized commercialization of ‘KOLHAPURI CHAPPAL’ during an international fashion event held at a Spring/Summer Men’s Collection 2026 in Milan, Italy on 22nd June, 2025, where its genuine origin, traditional custodianship and Geographical Indication (GI) status were entirely overlooked. This Public Interest Litigation seeks directions and appropriate reliefs, including an injunction and damages/compensation for the unauthorized commercialization of a GI-tagged product, which has caused significant harm to the community traditionally associated with it, particularly in Maharashtra State.”
In response to significant criticism for allegedly plagiarizing the work of Indian artisans, Prada released a statement acknowledging that its summer collection was ‘inspired by Indian artisans.’ However, the petitioners assert that Prada has not provided a ‘formal apology’ or any damages, compensation, or entitled remedy to the artisans from Maharashtra. The PIL read, “The Kolhapuri Chappal is the cultural symbol of Maharashtra and has special public sentiments attached to it. The brand has privately accepted that its collection is ‘inspired by Indian artisans’; however, this acknowledgment surfaced only after facing widespread backlash on various social media platforms. This acknowledgment was given to the private entity and not to the applicant, makers of Kolhapuri Chappal, GI Registry, Government, or the public at large. The brand has not yet issued any formal apology along with any damages, compensation, and entitled remedy, and the statement appears to be merely a superficial attempt to deflect criticism.”
The petition also calls for government action to protect Indian traditional designs and to prevent international companies from infringing on GI products. The PIL stated, “The PIL aims to protect the rights of the affected communities and the public of India from such impugned activities by the international brand/entities. The respective government department should be directed to comply with the enforcement of the GI and establish strong policies/mechanisms pertaining to the protection of GI rights.”
Furthermore, the petitioners seek a public apology from Prada. The case is expected to be heard in the Bombay High Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue addressed in the PIL against Prada?
The main issue addressed in the PIL is the alleged copying of the design of the Kolhapuri chappal by the Italian fashion brand Prada in its newly launched summer collection. The petitioners demand compensation and an apology from Prada, highlighting the cultural significance of the Kolhapuri chappal to Maharashtra.
What is the significance of the Kolhapuri chappal being a Geographical Indication (GI) product?
The Kolhapuri chappal is recognized as a Geographical Indication (GI) under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. This designation protects the product's unique characteristics and origin, ensuring that only authentic products from the specified region can be labeled as such.
Who filed the PIL and what do they demand from Prada?
A group of six lawyers from Pune filed the PIL against the Prada Group and certain Maharashtra government authorities. They demand a formal apology, damages, and compensation from Prada for the unauthorized commercialization of the Kolhapuri chappal design.
What has been Prada's response to the allegations?
Prada has acknowledged that its summer collection was 'inspired by Indian artisans.' However, the petitioners argue that this acknowledgment was only made after facing widespread backlash on social media and that Prada has not provided a formal apology or any compensation to the affected artisans.
What additional actions does the PIL seek from the government?
The PIL calls for government action to protect Indian traditional designs and to prevent international companies from infringing on GI products. It also seeks the establishment of strong policies and mechanisms to enforce the protection of GI rights.
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