“Prada was forced to engage with Kolhapuri shoemakers”

At Festival of Ideas Delhi 2026, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said India’s copyright office raised an objection over Kolhapuri-inspired designs, after which Prada engaged with Kolhapuri shoemakers and reached an understanding offering commercial benefits to artisans. He called for greater global exposure for Indian art, culture, handicrafts, handlooms and traditions.