NCC Inter Directorate Sports Shooting Competition kicks off in Kolhapur
Top NCC cadet shooters from across India have gathered to take part in the event. They will be competing in various categories of rifle and pistol shooting. The competition is not only about winning medals but also aims to encourage sportsmanship, focus, and discipline among cadets, an official statement said
Vantara Offers To Set Up Facility For Elephant Madhuri In Kolhapur Village
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had on Wednesday said Vantara will join the state government's petition in the Supreme Court to seek the return of elephant Madhuri to the monastery in Kolhapur.
Vantara offers full support for Madhuris return
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Aug 6: Vantara, the animal rescue centre in Gujarat today said that it fully supports efforts to bring back Madhuri, a 36-year-old elephant, to her original home in Kolhapur. Madhuri the elephant, also known as Mahadevi, was shifted from Kolhapurs Nandani Math to Vantaras facility in Jamnagar last month, following a Bombay High Court order based on a petition from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). In a statement issued, Vantara said, Vantara will extend [] The post Vantara offers full support for Madhuris return appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vantara to back Maha govt petition to bring back elephant Madhuri: CM
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Aug 6: Vantara, the Jamnagar-based animal rehabilitation centre, will support the Maharashtra governments petition in the Supreme Court seeking the return of elephant Madhuri to a monastery in Kolhapur, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Wednesday. A rescue centre will be set up for her near the monastery in Nandani in Kolhapur district, he said. I had an extensive discussion with the Vantara team today in Mumbai. Good news is that they assured me that they are happy [] The post Vantara to back Maha govt petition to bring back elephant Madhuri: CM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vantara proposes a specialized elephant rehabilitation center in Kolhapur for Madhuri, in collaboration with the Jain Math and the Maharashtra Forest Department, following appeals from the Jain community. This initiative includes advanced medical facilities and natural enclosures tailored for Madhuri's well-being. Vantara supports the petition for Madhuri's return, emphasizing its compliance with court orders and aiming to address community concerns.
Kolhapur Wants Elephant Madhuri Back: Amit Shah Promises Cooperation To Deputy CM Shinde, MP
Amit Shah said that instructions have been given to Vantara regarding Elephant Madhuri. Vantara has offered to establish a satellite rehabilitation centre for Madhuri in Kolhapur
Vantara officials, on Wednesday, acknowledged the religious significance of the Mahadevi elephant for the Jain Math and said that their involvement in the matter was based only on the Supreme Court's order.
Maharashtra CM Fadnavis holds meeting with Vantara zoo to bring back elephant Madhuri in Kolhapur
MUMBAI: Amid public uproar and pressure over bringing back Madhuri elephant in Kolhapur, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday held a meeting with the team of Vantara and discussed modalities to bring back the elephant. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, posting on his social media account, said he had an extensive discussion with the Vantara team today in Mumbai. Good news is that they assured me that they are happy to join Maharashtra Governments petition before the Honble Supreme Court for the smooth passage of the elephant Madhuri back to the Math. Vantara told that they are acting only on the orders of the Hon Supreme Court and had no intentions to grab the custody of Madhuri, he said. CM Devendra Fadnavis further added, The team also showed their willingness to build a rehab centre for Madhuri in Kolhapur near Nandani at a place selected by the Forest Department of Govt of Maharashtra. They also informed that they give highest respect to the religious sentiments of the community, Fadnavis said. The 36-year-old elephant Madhuri (also called Mahadevi) was relocated last week from Kolhapurs Shri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Jain Math to the Radhe Krishna Temple Elephant Welfare Trust at Vantaras wildlife rehabilitation facility in Jamnagar, Gujarat. However, residents of Kolhapur and the Jain community opposed this move, sensing a conspiracy to hand over the elephant to Vantara zoo. The elephants removal has triggered massive public unrest in Kolhapur. Last Sunday, thousands took part in a 'silent march' led by former MP Raju Shetty, beginning from Nandani and ending at the district collectorate. Taking cognizance of public sentiment, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting with the representatives of the Jain Math and ensured all possible help to bring Madhuri elephant back to Kolhapur. He also said the state government will file a review petition in court as well.
Elephant Madhuris Journey From Kolhapur To Vantara: The Jumbo Twists & Turns | Watch
Taking note of the protests, Vantara has now offered to establish a satellite rehabilitation centre for Madhuri in the Nandani area of Kolhapur
Vantara Offers To Set Up Satellite Rehabilitation Centre For Elephant Madhuri In Kolhapur
Vantara will also extend support to any application filed by the Jain Math and the Govt of Maharashtra before the Court requesting Madhuris return to Kolhapur, the statement said
Chief Minister Fadnavis says a special team will be formed to care for elephant Madhuri after her return from the rescue/rehabilitation centre
Vantara: Did Not Initiate Relocation Of Elephant Mahadevi From Kolhapur To Jamnagar
Vantara was not the initiating party, and that the entire process has been conducted under judicial and statutory oversight, in coordination with authorities, the statement said
Thousands in Kolhapur are protesting the court-ordered relocation of elephant Mahadevi to Vantara's sanctuary in Gujarat. While the Bombay High Court and Supreme Court cited years of neglect and poor health as grounds for her rehabilitation, locals insist she is part of their religious and cultural heritage. Vantara, named by the courts to receive the elephant, denies any role in initiating the transfer. The legal battle is over, but public emotion and political pressure continue to grow.
The Maharashtra government will hold a meeting to address public backlash over two Bombay High Court rulingsrelocating elephant Mahadevi from Kolhapur to Gujarat and banning pigeon feeding in Mumbai. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis said the government must consider public sentiment and explore possible solutions, as the decisions were court-mandated and not initiated by the state.
From Begging In Chains In Kolhapur To Freedom At Vantara After 33 Years: Elephant Mahadevis Journey
Elephant Mahadevi (Madhuri) had foot rot, untreated wounds, and continued psychological stress. The elephant was transferred to Vantara under court supervision
Thousands march in silent rally in Kolhapur, demanding return of elephant Mahadevi by NGO Vantara
The Bombay High Court on July 16 had allowed the relocation of the elephant to Vantaras facility in Gujarat, noting that the elephant had been kept in solitary confinement and was reportedly in poor health
Maharashtra temple elephant relocated to Vantara; devotees turn emotional
Devotees of Swasthishri Jinsen Bhattarak Pattacharya Mahaswami Sanstha, a religious body in Maharashtras Kolhapur, bid an emotional farewell to their temple elephant, which was shifted to Anant Ambani-owned Vantara in Gujarats Jamnagar district. Due to misinformation about elephant Mahadevi (Madhuri) circulating on social media, PETA India shares the full story of how she went from Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Fadnavis Sounds Flood Alarm Over Karnatakas Almatti Dam Plan
This will greatly help in protecting the livelihood and safety of the people of Sangli and Kolhapur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
Bombay High Court gets new bench at Kolhapur; sittings from August 18
The Bombay High Court will establish a new bench in Kolhapur, western Maharashtra, commencing August 18, 2025. This fourth HC bench in the state aims to alleviate the burden on litigants and lawyers who currently travel to Mumbai. Covering six districts, the decision follows demands and support from legal figures, promising more accessible and efficient justice for the region.
Bombay HC gets 4th Bench at Kolhapur; sittings from August 18; Maharashtra CM hails move
The new Bench is likely to have jurisdiction over six districts Satara, Sangli, Solapur, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg (last two located in coastal Konkan region)
HC gets 5th bench in Kolhapur, it will start functioning from Aug 18
After Prada controversy, LIDCOM and LIDKAR reaffirm ownership of Kolhapuri Chappal GI Tag
After a Maharashtra business body engages in discussion with Prada, LIDCOM and LIDKAR say that nobody apart from them can negotiate with Prada or anyone else
Activist hurt as hooligans pelt stones in Kolhapur during elephant relocation
Despite a Supreme Court order to free Mahadevi, a captive elephant, from a Kolhapur temple, violent resistance erupted during her relocation. PETA India activists faced stone pelting, resulting in injuries, while attempting to transport the elephant to a sanctuary. Mahadevi, after enduring 33 years of suffering, has safely arrived at the sanctuary, where she will receive expert care and companionship.
Jain Community protests transfer of temple elephant to Ambani-run sanctuary in Gujarat
HUBBALLI : The Jain community in Maharashtra and Karnataka has expressed strong opposition to the relocation of a temple elephant named Madhuri, also known as Mahadevi, from the Nandani Mutt in Kolhapur to the Vantara animal rescue centre in Gujarat, operated by Anant Ambani. Although the elephant's transfer was carried out following a court order prompted by a petition from PETA (India), many Jains have condemned the move, demanding that the elephant be returned to the mutt or relocated to a government facility, rather than being placed in what they see as a private enterprise. Protests are being planned in Hubballi and Belagavi in Karnataka, with prominent Jain saints from across India vowing to escalate the matter. The community intends to petition Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Justice of India B R Gavai, urging them to reconsider the decision. Public outrage intensified after videos of the Nandani Mutt seer weeping during the elephants departure went viral earlier this week. In response, several members of the Jain community have begun boycotting products and services offered by the Ambani-led Jio brand. PETA India had submitted an application to the Bombay High Court citing the elephants poor welfare and history of aggression. The 35-year-old female elephant, described as having exhibited dangerous behaviour in recent years, including allegedly causing the death of a Jain swamiji, was subsequently ordered to be relocated to the newly established Vantara facility in Gujarat. However, the Jain community sees the move as an affront to their religious and cultural traditions. Jains are known for their compassion and nonviolence. This elephant has been part of our spiritual life for decades, said Gunadhatnandi Maharaj, head of the Varur shrine. Across the country, Jains are being marginalised. First in Gujarat over the Girnar shrine, and now this. Bringing the elephant back to Nandani Mutt has become a central cause for many Jain shrines. We will approach the highest authorities to reverse this cultural loss. Echoing these sentiments, Bhuvankeerthi Battarak Swamiji of Kanakagiri Mutt questioned the rationale behind the decision. Do we, who run over 14,000 gaushalas, need to be taught about animal welfare? Could the government not have worked with the mutt to improve conditions rather than relocating the elephant? If Maharashtra lacks its own facility, why must the animal be sent all the way to Gujarat? he asked. Despite the concerns raised, PETA maintains that the relocation was essential for the elephants welfare. In a statement, the organisation highlighted the elephants history of aggression and emphasised the need for expert care, which they claim Vantara is equipped to provide. The Jain community, however, remains firm in its stance and is preparing to launch widespread protests until the elephant is returned to Kolhapur.
Elephant moved from Kolhapur to Gujarat facility following SC order
The pachyderm was transferred to representatives of the Radhe Krishna Elephant Welfare Trust run by Vantara, an animal welfare centre in Jamnagar, Gujarat, from a Kolhapur mutt on Monday, and Mahadevi will reach the new home in two days
A crowd of people dressed in sparkling lehengas, sarees, and sherwanis walking into a richly decorated hall to the sound of a dhol band is an image quintessential to Indian weddings. What if we told you that you didnt have to get married or be invited to a wedding, to experience the excitement of it all sangeet, mehendi, and wedding chaat stalls included? That is exactly what fake wedding or fake sangeet events gaining popularity across the country among Gen Z, aims to do. Bengaluru too, has seen a few of these events with Big Fat Fake Wedding hosted at JW Marriott seeing around 2,000 people in attendance, priced at `4,000 for men. It was the hottest topic in town everyone went out their way to get a new fit made and go all out with dressing in traditional wear, says Tanishka Choudhary, 20, a fashion student attendee. The appeal of such events to participants, mainly in their 20s, is being able to celebrate the dhoom dhaam of weddings without the pressure or judgement of relatives. Choudhary says, Gen Z doesnt really believe in marriage so concepts like this are appealing because its a way to have fun and enjoy weddings without having to worry about marriage or judgement. The metropolitan nature of Bengaluru too, has contributed to the popularity of fake weddings, according to Kaushal Chanani, the co-founder of 8club, the organisers of the JW Marriott event. A lot of the attendees were from other parts of India these events are prominent in cities where a lot of people are not regularly going to family events or family functions, because people want to build their own community with this. Another fake wedding event that saw a full house is Shaadi Mubarak hosted by Vibhav Kumar Modis Dark Vibe Society and two others, which sought to bring the wedding experience to the queer community, giving participants an experience the law still denies. The idea came from thinking of what it would feel like for queer people who are not allowed to get married in India, to be a part of a marriage free from judgement, says Modi, adding that they did away with gender norms evident in weddings. We had wedding games like a contest between partners to find a ring in the milk and a tug of war game without a groom and brides side. We also had a sangeet led by drag performers. Fake wedding nights have gained virality on social media with youngsters making reels gaining millions of views. With the social media attention, some have criticised the concept saying that Gen Z is not giving traditions the respect they are due but Prathiban, the GM of Raahi Neo Kitchen and Bar, has a rebuttal, We are used to theme nights like a white night, red night, one night in Paris or Jamaica, etc. This is more like a sangeet-themed DJ night than a real wedding. We dont have rituals, just the decor, food and music is like a sangeet. This was priced at `2,000 for couples, redeemable against food and drinks. While Delhi has been the epicentre of fake weddings events in India with at least one happening each week, Bengaluru is just beginning to catch on, notes Chanani, explaining the difference. People in Delhi love to hop on the trend but Bengalurus behaviour is different in terms of event organisers. They dont want to look like they are copying someones concept. But we are in talks with a few organisers to bring it back to Bengaluru, he says, noting that theres been interest from tier two, three and four cities as well with a search on social media showing fake shaadis hosted in Kolhapur, Jaipur and Dehradun too. We are seeing a lot of traction from small cities like Bhopal, Rajkot, that want to bring this to their community. Weve gotten around 50-60 requests to collaborate in the weeks after the Bengaluru event went viral, adds Chanani.
Government to hold 1,000 stakeholder meetings, workshops, outreach programmes on India-UK trade pact
NEW DELHI: The government will organise as many as 1,000 outreach programmes, including stakeholder meetings, workshops, awareness drives and feedback sessions, in the next 20 days across the country to sensitise industry and states on the India-UK trade agreement , sources said. The exercise is aimed at ensuring effective implementation and maximising benefits from the comprehensive economic and trade agreement (CETA), which was signed on July 24. They said that there is a plan to hold sector-wise outreach programmes. Respective line ministries will also hold programmes on the agreement. Teams will also visit different states to inform them about the benefits of this trade agreement. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will hold a meeting with the leather and textiles sector on the trade pact here on Monday. Goyal on July 26 said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already instructed him to talk to specific industry segments that will become far more competitive now after the implementation of this pact. I will be having sectoral meetings with every sector till the Parliament is going on and after that I will go to all states, he has said. Bhagalpur silk (Bihar), Pashmina shawls (Jammu and Kashmir), Kolhapuri chappal (Maharashtra), and Thanjavur dolls (Tamil Nadu) will now prominently appear on shelves in malls and shops across Britain, as the India-UK free trade agreement will provide duty concessions to a host of traditional products manufactured here. Other such goods, which will benefit from the pact, include Baluchari sarees (West Bengal), Bandhini (Gujarati tie-dye textile art), Kanchipuram sarees, and Tiruppur knitwear. The minister will also travel to Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and talk to the fishermen community about the opportunity that this pact opens for them. I will visit tech centres of Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Pune, Mumbai, Gurugram (and inform) how the double contribution convention pact (DCC) will help them expand their services exports, Goyal has said, adding, we will be sensitising the sectors to get the best out this agreement. We will send delegations to UK... and prepare the ground work in the next few months while their parliamentary approval is going on so that we can start leveraging the FTA as soon as it is operational, he added. India-UK FTA allows India to temporarily hike tariff if UK imports surge The pact will see 99 per cent of Indian exports enter the UK duty-free, when it comes into force. It will also reduce tariffs on British products such as cars, cosmetics, and whisky. The deal aims to double the USD 56-billion trade between the world's fifth and sixth largest economies by 2030. While India has opened its market to various consumer goods, including chocolates, biscuits, and cosmetics, it will gain greater access to export products such as textiles, furniture, footwear, gems and jewellery, sports goods, and toys. Also, Indian companies, such as TCS and Infosys, operating in the UK won't have to make social security contributions for up to three years for employees who move from India. Under the pact, tariffs on Scotch whisky will be reduced from 150 per cent to 75 per cent immediately, and further lowered to 40 per cent by 2035. On automobiles, India will reduce import duties to 10 per cent over five years, down from the current rate of up to 110 per cent, under a gradually liberalised quota system. India has provided duty concessions to the UK auto exporters only on large petrol and diesel vehicles and high-priced EVs, while protecting sensitive segments of the domestic automotive industry, especially mid and small cars and low-priced EVs, under the trade pact. India will also get duty-free access to several agri goods in the UK, such as fruits, vegetables, cereals, turmeric, pepper, cardamom, and processed goods like ready-to-eat food, mango pulp, pickles, and pulses. Marine products such as shrimp, tuna, fishmeal, and feeds, currently taxed between 4.2 per cent and 8.5 per cent, will become duty-free once the pact comes into force. In the textiles segment, India is facing a duty disadvantage vis-a-vis Bangladesh, Pakistan and Cambodia, which have duty-free access to the UK market. Now this FTA would eliminate the tariff on textile imports from India, thereby enhancing its price competitiveness in the UK market. On the services front, the agreement will enable Indian financial services players to expand their footprint in Britain, enhance their competitiveness and serve the Indian diaspora and businesses. For digitally delivered financial services, the UK has provided market access with respect to the various sub-sectors under both insurance and insurance-related, and banking and other financial services. India has right to take corrective steps if UK imposes carbon tax
After Prada appropriation, Maharashtra to certify authentic Kolhapuri chappals with QR code
KOLHAPUR: The humble Kolhapuri chappal, one of India's most iconic traditional crafts, is enjoying renewed prominence not only in domestic fashion circles but also in international markets, amid Italian brand Prada being accused of appropriating the footwear. The GI-tagged handmade flat leather sandals, known for their intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage, now carry an added layer of protection and authenticity in the form of QR codes, thanks to recent technological and legal innovations. The move aims to check counterfeiting and highlight the identity of the artisan behind each product, boost consumer trust and strengthen the market position of the traditional craftsmen, officials from the government-run Leather Industries Development Corporation of Maharashtra (LIDCOM) said. Recently, artisans cried foul after footwear similar to the Kolhapuri chappals featured in Italian luxury fashion brand Prada's new collection, alleging violation of the GI (Geographical Indication) rights. Following the row, Prada had acknowledged the sandals showcased in their men's 2026 fashion show were inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear. The brand, however, clarified in a reply to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce that the showcased sandals are still at the design stage and not yet confirmed for commercial production. A team of experts from Prada visited Kolhapur earlier this month to interact with artisans and assess the local footwear manufacturing process. Dating back to the 12th century, the footwear has been primarily crafted in Maharashtra's Kolhapur, Sangli and Solapur districts. Its distinctive design, made using naturally tanned leather and handwoven straps, has been preserved through generations of artisans. A major boost came in the early 20th century when visionary ruler Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj promoted it as a symbol of self-reliance and Swadeshi pride. He encouraged the use of these chappals, helping elevate the rural craft into a respected cottage industry. Kolhapuri chappal row: Bombay HC dismisses PIL against Prada; questions petitioners' right to sue What was once a humble, coarse village slipper, soon became a symbol of swadeshi identity under the royal patronage. To safeguard this cultural legacy and ensure fair recognition for artisans, the Maharashtra and Karnataka governments jointly secured the GI tag in 2019. Under international trade rules such as the TRIPS agreement, this GI status legally reserves the rights to manufacture and market Kolhapuri chappals to artisans from specific districts in both the states. The certification defines the product as handmade, using traditional techniques and natural leather, with open-toe construction, prohibiting the use of synthetic materials or mechanised processes. Going a step further, the LIDCOM has introduced QR-coded certification for each pair of chappals, the corporation said in a statement. This digital initiative aims to tackle counterfeiting and highlight the identity of the artisan or self-help group behind each product, it said. Buyers scanning the code can access details like name and location of the artisan or production unit, district of manufacture in Maharashtra, craft techniques and raw materials used, validity and status of the GI certification. This initiative not only boosts consumer trust but also strengthens the market position of traditional craftsmen, the LIDCOM said. The corporation is now calling upon consumers, designers and the common public to stand in solidarity with India's indigenous craft traditions. Kolhapuri chappals are not just fashion accessories. They are a powerful expression of traditional skill, identity and the dignity of small artisan communities, the statement quoted LIDCOM Managing Director Prerna Deshbhratar as saying. Founded in 1974, LIDCOM has been a pivotal institution in empowering rural leather artisans. Through training programmes, market development, design innovation and economic support, the organisation has transformed traditional footwear-making into a symbol of Maharashtra's cultural pride and grassroots economy. Kolhapuri chappals have now regained global spotlight, blending heritage with modern relevance. More than just the traditional footwear, they are a symbol of skilled artisanry and indigenous pride. Since 1974, LIDCOM, also known as the Sant Rohidas Charmodyog and Charmakar Vikas Mahamandal, has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting this heritage craft, as per the statement. The corporation has empowered thousands of rural artisans by offering skill development training, encouraging innovation, expanding markets and ensuring sustainable livelihoods, it said. On the organisation's vision, Deshbhratar, said, Kolhapuri chappals are not merely utilitarian items. They embody stories of self-reliance, national pride and a living cultural tradition. Through our efforts, we aim to strengthen the hands that preserve this legacy and inspire generations to come. Apart from economic uplift, the corporation is also committed to cultural conservation. It continues to implement a wide range of initiatives -- from developing training centres and empowering self-help groups to building linkages between buyers and suppliers across domestic and international markets -- to ensure the traditional craft survives and thrives in a changing economic landscape, the statement said.
The GI-tagged handmade flat leather sandals, known for their intricate craftsmanship and cultural heritage, now carry an added layer of protection and authenticity in the form of QR codes.
APDs inclusive mission empowers over 26,000
BENGALURU: Unlike the one-time, piecemeal interventions like a single therapy camp, a wheelchair donation, or a disconnected pension scheme, extended to Persons with Disabilities (PwD), which provide only provide timely relief, The Association of People With Disability (APD) is focusing on Life Cycle Approach, under which tailored services to various age groups among PwDs are delivered guiding them along a developmental path aligned with specific timelines to achieve better outcomes. In the three-year project that started in 2022, in Yadgir and Raichur, Dr NS Senthil Kumar, Chief Executive Officer at APD, said that till now over 26,933 people have benefited. The beneficiaries received rehabilitation services, assistive devices, educational support, and livelihood opportunities, awareness and training, as well as indirect beneficiaries such as family members, carers, and community stakeholders, have been trained, sensitised, and empowered as part of the ecosystem. Main aim is to transform Yadgir and Raichur into a truly inclusive and supportive environment for PwD. Through a life-cycle approach, this mission seeks to empower individuals with access to comprehensive rehabilitation, their rightful entitlements, and opportunities to live with dignity and equality. At the heart of the program is a community-based rehabilitation model, which brings services directly to the people. This is complemented by a transdisciplinary approach and community-based rehab workersbringing together expertise from various fields to address the full spectrum of needs, Dr Senthil said. Our strategy is broad and inclusive. It goes beyond physical care, encompassing social inclusion, education, and economic empowerment. The model is built on community ownership for the people, by the people. Mothers and peer trainers are trained to take on therapeutic roles, helping build capacity within families and neighbourhoods, the doctor explained. He added that they leverage local strengths, using schools as inclusive spaces and empowering government frontline workers and community structures like self-help groups and federations, to act as facilitators of change, ensuring that responsibility and accountability are shared. Creating a truly inclusive society requires more than isolated efforts, it demands a strong, interconnected ecosystem. In Yadgir and Raichur districts, we are building just that: a robust, community-driven support system that places persons with disabilities at the centre, while mobilising every layer of society to support them, said Dr Senthil. APD has plans to expand this programme to Kalaburagi, Dharwad, and Bangalore rural district and Kolhapur district of Maharashtra.
India-UK free trade agreement 'game-changing,' every section stands to benefit: Goyal
NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal on Saturday termed the India-UK free trade agreement as game-changing and said that it will benefit every section, including the farmers, youths, entrepreneurs and MSMEs. The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), also called Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, was signed by Goyal and his counterpart Jonathan Reynolds in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday. Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, Goyal attributed the successful signing of the FTA to Prime Minister Modi's leadership. It is a game-changing agreement, he said, adding that it will bring immense opportunities to India's farmers, entrepreneurs, MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises), youths, fishermen, and every sections of the society. India would be able to ship 99 per cent of its exports to the UK duty-free, he added. Goyal asserted that the agreement was signed with the UK confidently on India's terms while protecting sensitive items in agriculture and dairy sectors. We have protected many of our sensitive items like rice and sugar. Dairy has not been opened, so is ethanol. India has kept itself safe in the areas that are sensitive. No duty concession has been given (in these areas), he added. I believe that this FTA carries a very big message for the future economy of India. We will all see the benefits that India will get under it in the coming years, he said. Goyal said that when the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) was in power, they used to signed FTAs with ASEAN countries that were competing with us. They used to open our markets to such countries and impose zero duty. Those countries used to sell their goods cheaply in India and harm India's manufacturing, Goyal said. Many business organisations, chambers and MSME leaders have said multiple times that the kind of FTAs that were signed during the UPA were not in the interest of the country, he added. India-UK FTA allows India to temporarily hike tariff if UK imports surge Citing the recent Prada-Kolhapuri sandal row, the minister said that with the implementation of the FTA with the UK, India will get the credit for its GI (Geographical Indication) products. Someone used the design of our Kolhapuri sandal. The commerce ministry immediately took action on it. In future, when Kolhapuri sandals are exported, India will get the credit. It will be exported as India's GI product, he said. Big international companies are expressing desire to associate themselves with Indian products, he added. Goyal also termed the signing of a Double Contribution Convention Agreement with the UK as a ig achievement for India, saying that the Indian service sector is set to hugely benefit from it. Whosoever now goes to the UK for a short-term service as an inter-corporate transferee -- whether it is in software services, hotels or to work as yoga instructors -- a part of their earnings will now be deposited in their EPFO (Employees Provident Fund Organisation) account, he said. Replying to a question on the India-UK FTA not having any provision on Britain's proposed carbon tax, Goyal said that he thinks it is a non-issue. They have already made it quite flexible. They have liberalised it, he told reporters. In December 2023, the UK government had decided to implement its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) from 2027. Goyal said that the entire Europe and industries there are worried about the CBAM because its implementation will make the continent so expensive. Stating that India is the only country that is progressing very fast in terms of the environment, he said, Whoever takes any step against our interests or our trade in the form of non-tariff barrier, we will respond accordingly. We have purified our 2030 targets in 2025. So, I think we do not have to fear these issues. If any such issue that will harm India's interests, then India is capable of responding to it, he asserted. Post-FTA, Indian suppliers can access UKs $122 billion public procurement market
'India Will Get Due Credit': Piyush Goyal On Prada Using Kolhapuris As Inspiration
Piyush Goyal said the Commerce Ministry ensured India gets credit for the Prada Kolhapuri chappal design. Prada acknowledged the Indian inspiration after criticism.
Kolhapuris To Banarsis: How Trade Deal With UK Put Brand India On Global Map
Protecting and promoting the Band India-- from Kohlapuri Chappals to Banarasi and Chanderi textiles-- is a massive priority in the India-UK Free Trade Agreement set to be signed on Thursday in London.
While French Industrial Bodies Build Empires, Indian Associations Cant Even Play Catch Up
The Internet exploded when Prada unveiled their 1,200 woven leather slippers, a barely disguised copy of Indias centuries-old Kolhapuri chappals. The backlash was so fierce that Prada executives, perhaps stung by accusations of cultural appropriation, dispatched senior officials to Maharashtra to learn from the real cobblers in what appeared to be corporate repentance. Yet this Continue reading While French Industrial Bodies Build Empires, Indian Associations Cant Even Play Catch Up The post While French Industrial Bodies Build Empires, Indian Associations Cant Even Play Catch Up appeared first on OurVoice | WeRIndia - Analysis & Opinion .
This city to get 4 new Vande Bharat trains, check routes, prices, more details here
Indian Railways has notified that it will launch four new Vande Bharat trains from Pune. The city of Maharashtra already has two functional Vande Bharat Express trains, one to Kolhapur and the other to Hubballi. With four more express trains, Pune will get six Vande Bharat trains.
IMD issues red alert for Konkan, orange alert for Mumbai
MUMBAI: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Wednesday issued an orange alert from Mumbai and neighbouring areas and a red alert for various other districts in the Konkan region, predicting heavy rainfall over the next two days. Mumbai witnessed incessant showers since early Wednesday morning, due to which some low-lying areas like Andheri subway were waterlogged and vehicular movement was affected in parts of the city, civic officials said. Amid the downpour, traffic snarls were witnessed at key locations, including on the Eastern Express Highway and the Western Express Highway. In the 24-hour period ending at 8 am on Wednesday, the island city, eastern suburbs and western suburbs recorded an average rainfall of 47.77 mm, 33.10 mm and 53.92 mm, respectively, the civic officials said. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Mumbai said the Konkan region and ghat areas in Maharashtra will get heavy downpour due to the low pressure area formed in the Bay of Bengal. In the next 24 hours, a low pressure area is forming in the Bay of Bengal and the impact of it will be visible on Konkan region of Maharashtra, RMC official Shubhangi Bhute said. The IMD has sounded an orange alert for Palghar, Thane and Mumbai districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places on Thursday. A yellow alert has been issued for these places on Friday. The weather department has also given a red alert for Raigad, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places with extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places on Thursday. The red alert has been maintained for Raigad and Ratnagiri on Friday as well. The IMD has issued a red alert for ghat areas of Satara, Pune and Kolhapur districts on Thursday, and the ghat regions of Satara and Pune on Friday. A red alert implies a ake action warning, while orange and yellow alerts suggest e prepared to take action and e aware warnings, respectively.
In 2019, when floods devastated several parts of Maharashtra, this actor once again stepped up. Teaming up with Gurugram's Elan Group, he helped rebuild Khidrapur village in Kolhapur.
Bombay HC junks PIL against Prada on Kolhapuri sandals
The Bombay High Court dismissed a PIL against Prada concerning the alleged copying of the Kolhapuri Chappal design, citing that the producers' associations should have initiated the legal action under GI law. The court emphasized that the registered owners of the GI product, government agencies in Maharashtra and Karnataka, should seek redressal.
HC Dismisses PIL Against Prada Over Kolhapuri Chappals
Bombay High Court questions petitioners' locus; says only GI rights holders can sue for infringement
Prada Team Visits Kolhapur To Meet Local Artisans Amid Kolhapuri Sandal Row
They met with local artisans in Jawahar Nagar, a hub for Kolhapuri chappal-making, and interacted with craftsmen
Bombay High Court Dismisses Plea Against Prada; Questions Locus Of Petitioners
The Bombay High Court on Wednesday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) against Italian fashion house Prada for its alleged unauthorised use of the famous Kolhapuri chappals.
Kolhapuri chappals row: HC junks PIL against Prada
The Bombay high court on Wednesday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) against Italian fashion house Prada for its alleged unauthorised use of the famous Kolhapuri chappals.
Prada, however, clarified in a reply to the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce that the showcased sandals are still at the design stage and not yet confirmed for commercial production.
Technical experts from Prada visit Kolhapur, interact with artisans
Following the row, Prada had acknowledged that the sandals showcased in their men's 2026 fashion show were inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear
Kolhapuri chappal row: Bombay HC dismisses PIL against Prada; questions petitioners right to sue
The plea had said the Kolhapuri chappal is protected as a Geographical Indication under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act.
Kolhapuri chappal row: Bombay HC dismisses PIL against Prada; questions petitioners' right to sue
The Bombay High Court has dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) against Prada for allegedly using Kolhapuri chappals without authorization. The court questioned the advocates' right to file the PIL, as they weren't the owners of the footwear. The plea stated Prada's 'toe-ring sandals', priced at Rs 1 lakh, resembled the protected Kolhapuri chappals.
Priya Nair: Pulling all the right levers
That Dalal Street has given a five-notch salute to the news of a small-town girl Priya Nair moving to the corner room of the countrys largest fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) maker is less about she being the first-ever woman to lead the 92-year-old Hindustan Unilever , but more about her accomplishments during her three decades in the company. Priyas journey began in 1995 as a management trainee in the company that is also known as the CEO Factory for grooming dozens of trainees into chief executives of large multinational corporations. Born in a middle class Malayalee family in the Maharashtras sugar town of Kolhapur, Priya does not boast of a degree from the top B-schools she graduated from Sydenham College in Bombay and then a masters in marketing from Symbiosis Management Institute in Pune (not from top tier IIMs), Nairs rise to the top itself breaks many a myth. The immediate reference points that the market is lapping up are how Priya has turned around the struggling beauty and skin care business of the Anglo-Dutch consumer goods giant in London as its president since 2023 and has made it a 13-billion-poundprofit company. Back home as the executive director of the home care division (2014-20), she helped boost the segmental profit margins from a low 13.1% to 18.8%, which also lifted HULs overall margins from 15% to 22.3%. The market is also benchmarking her against the stellar show that Sanjiv Mehta (the CEO before the outgoing incumbent Rohit Jawa), who was instrumental in more than doubling annual sales to Rs 58,000 crore from Rs 25,000 crore, and market-cap soaring four times to over Rs 5.5 lakh crore during his five-year term ending in June 2023. Priya doing an encore is what the expectation is. Analysts and markets have already factored in her ability to do the not-so-easily-doable that too at a stellar scale. London-based Priya assumes a 5-year tenure from August 1 at a time when the company is facing slowing growth and intense competition from fast moving D2C brands and new-age players. Under the watch of the outgoing leadership, sales barely climbed 2% while the stock plunged 10%. Many analysts are also comparing her elevation to the top job as what Varun Berry has done to Britannia, who brought fresh thinking and a new strategy, driving the company into an extraordinary growth trajectory. Street is expecting a similar kind of acceleration in growth for HUL, post management change, said SBI Securities analysts. Priya is expected to bring a lot of best practices, product innovations, and new products in high-margin areas, as she did in the home care division first and then at the beauty and wellness division later. That Nair has a strong track record across key categories and deep understanding of the market is the key lever she enjoys along with the solid support she has in the top management. Global brokerage houses are also seeing the change in leadership as a catalyst for HUL. The Japanese brokerage firm, Nomura believes that this leadership change will give HUL the necessary edge over its competitors, helping it tackle market challenges, speed up its digital transformation, and tap into the growing and long-term opportunities in Indias consumer market. Priya joins the elite club of Desi C-suite executives to head global organizations, many of whom are women. The long list of HUL trainees becoming global leaders includes Leena Nair (CEO of the global luxe fashion brand Channel, and who also hails from Kolhapur and parented by Malayalees), Prabha Narasimhan (Colgate Palmolive India CEO), Harman Dhillon (Tata Consumer Products head) and Anuradha Razdan among others. That Priya will simultaneously be joining the Unilever leadership executive team and the HUL board indicates the trust the top team management has in her. I am certain that with her deep understanding of the Indian market and excellent track record, Priya will take HUL to the next level of performance, HUL chairman Nitin Paranjpe said in the statement appointing her.
Prada to send technical expert team to the State next week, says Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture; describes it as a significant win for community recognition and inclusion in global design platforms
Prada Keen To Launch Limited-Edition 'Kolhapuri-Inspired' Collection: MACCIA
Prada expressed intent to launch a limited-edition Made-in-India Kolhapuri-inspired collection in partnership with local artisans, an official statement from MACCIA said.
Prada Looks At Collaborating With Kolhapuri Chappal Artisans After Row
Prada is looking to collaborate with artisanal footwear makers in India in a partnership, it said on Friday, two weeks after the Italian luxury group triggered a controversy by debuting ethnic sandals resembling 12th-century Indian ones.
Watch: What makes a leather sandal a Kolhapuri chappal? | Pulse Maharashtra
For the unversed, Prada recently faced backlash for showcasing a pair of sandals that looked very similar to India's traditional Kolhapuri chappals without giving proper credit to their Indian origin.
Opinion: Opinion | Of Prada, Dior, And Manufactured Meanings Of Luxury
Let's not waste breath or bites any further on Prada and Dior 'stealing' from the Indian artisanal traditions: the Kolhapuri footwear and the Muqaish embroidery.
Sandal Scandal: Why this Kolhapuri Di?
By Shivanand Pandit On June 2025, Milans fashion week witnessed a moment that sparked global debate. Italian luxury giant Prada unveiled its Spring/Summer 2026 menswear collection, which included footwear strongly inspired by Indias iconic Kolhapuri chappals. These open-toed, handmade leather sandals, traditionally crafted from tan buffalo hide and natural dyes like babul bark, have been [] The post Sandal Scandal: Why this Kolhapuri Di? appeared first on Northlines .
Three dead, one injured in road accident near Athani
The pilgrims were returning to Afzalpur from Kolhapur when their car rammed a NWKRTC bus
News in Frames | Kolhapuri chappals walk on chic runways
Rooted in centuries-old craftsmanship, these eco-friendly, handmade sandals stand as a proud symbol of Indias artisanal heritage and sustainable fashion
Maharashtra reports 12 COVID-19 cases on Sat, one death in last 24 hours
Maharashtra reported 12 new COVID-19 cases and one death on Saturday, raising the state's total cases to 2,569 and deaths to 41 since January 1. A 76-year-old woman from Kolhapur with comorbidity died from the virus. Mumbai's tally reached 1007, with 551 cases in June and 15 in July, while 2,466 people have recovered this year.
'Do they have gold in them?': The Indian artisans up in arms over Prada's sandals
Artisans who make Kolhapuri sandals are demanding better recognition after Prada failed to acknowledge design roots.
PIL in Bombay High Court seeks to protect Kolhapuri chappals GI from exploitation
The petitioners urge judicial intervention to safeguard traditional artisans rights and demand action against luxury fashion brand Prada
Cultural appropriation isnt just colonial, its casteist
Beneath the Indian diasporas outrage of the Kolhapuri-Prada fiasco, lies a deeper, more uncomfortable truth: the issue isnt just about what is being borrowed, but who gets to borrow
Big trouble for Prada over Rs 1.2 lakh 'Kolhapuri' sandals, know what it is
Prada is under fire after unveiling Rs 1.2 lakh sandals inspired by India's Kolhapuri chappals. A PIL has been filed seeking credit for Indian artisans, compensation, and legal safeguards for GI-tagged crafts.
PIL against Prada for Kolhapuri chappal design seeks damages
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Bombay High Court against Italian fashion house Prada for its alleged unauthorized use of the Kolhapuri chappals. The PIL seeks compensation to be paid to Indian artisans for allegedly copying their design.
Prada's new sandals sparked controversy. The design closely resembled Indian Kolhapuri chappals. Radhika Gupta, Edelweiss Mutual Fund CEO, criticized Prada. She highlighted the lack of recognition for Indian craftsmanship. Prada stated the sandals were inspired by Indian footwear. The company said it contacted the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce. Social media users pointed out the similarity.
Mumbai is bracing for heavy rainfall. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for Mumbai, Konkan, and western Maharashtra. An orange alert is in place for Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg. A red alert is issued for Pune district's ghat areas. Nashik, Satara, and Kolhapur's hilly regions also face orange alerts. Konkan region is expected to receive significant rainfall.
Prada to engage with Kolhapuri chappal artisans, Maharashtra industry body
MACCIA proposes joint working group for co-branding initiative; video meeting scheduled for next week
India accuses Prada of copying India's iconic Kolhapuri Chappals
The Kolhapuri chappals inspired a new Prada design. The luxury brand only acknowledged this fact after critics accused it of replicating the iconic sandals without recognizing the footwear's cultural roots.
After Prada Sandal Scandal, Indian Brands Tap Heritage Pride to Boost Sales
Handmade in small factories, Kolhapuri sandals, or chappals as they are called in Hindi, are often paired with Indian attire
Prada or Plagiarised? Kolhapuri Chappals Walk the Milan Runway
Maharashtra Logs 13 New Covid-19 Cases, One Death
As per an official statement, one patient suffering from comorbidities died in Kolhapur district.
Prada acknowledges footwear design's Indian roots after backlash
Prada described the Kolhapuri sandals as leather footwear but did not mention its origins, prompting backlash.
Leather Sandals or Kohlapuri Chappals? Prada Responds to Appropriation Allegations
There are 20,000 artisans here in Kolhapur who make these chappals. All of us manufacturers have come together to condemn Prada. We will also send a memorandum to the Sant Rohidas Charmodyog Vikas Mahamandal to take action in this matter. We are now going to approach the District Collector, the State government, and the Union government.
Final Call for Samsung Solve for Tomorrow: Your Idea Could Be the Next Big Solution
From New Delhi to Kolhapur, thousands of students have stepped up--now its your turn to solve real world problems with bold ideasand maybe win Rs 1 crore. Apply by June 30.
Prada Acknowledges Inspiration From Kolhapuri Chappals After Backlash
In its show notes, Prada had described the footwear as leather sandals, with no reference to an Indian connection.
Prada Opens Up On Row Over 'Kolhapuri Chappals', Admits Indian Footwears Inspiration
The Italian house said that sandals featured in thefashion show are still at the design stage and none of the pieces worn by models on the ramp are confirmed to be commercialised.
After row, Prada breaks silence over 'Kolhapuri chappals'
Artisans from Maharashtra have cried foul after footwear similar to the famous Kolhapuri chappals featured in Prada's show. They alleged violation of geographical identification (GI) rights.
MUMBAI: After a controversy triggered by the use of Kolhapuri chappals in a collection, Italian luxury fashion brand Prada has acknowledged the connection, saying the design is inspired by the Indian handcrafted footwear. The Italian house, however, said that sandals featured in the men's 2026 fashion show are still at the design stage and none of the pieces worn by models on the ramp are confirmed to be commercialised. We acknowledge that the sandals featured in the recent Prada Men's 2026 Fashion Show are inspired by traditional Indian handcrafted footwear, with a centuries-old heritage. We deeply recognize the cultural significance of such Indian craftsmanship, a representative from Prada said in a reply to Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (MACCIA). MACCIA president Lalit Gandhi said the chamber wrote to the fashion house after seeing the visuals, in the interest of the local artisans and the industry. The Kolhapuri chappal is very distinct and we want our footwear to go to newer markets. But it has to get the rightful recognition, Gandhi told PTI on Saturday. In the letter to Prada, MACCIA also sought exploration collaborations and fair compensation to the artisans and also an adherence to ethical fashion practices that respect traditional knowledge and cultural rights. Prada is an Italian luxury fashion house founded in 1913 in Milan by Mario Prada. We are committed to responsible design practices, fostering cultural engagement, and opening a dialogue for a meaningful exchange with local Indian artisan communities as we have done in the past in other collections to ensure the rightful recognition of their craft, Prada's group head for corporate social responsibility, Lorenzo Bertelli, said in his reply. PTI has a copy of the correspondence. Prada welcomes the opportunity of further discussions, and the relevant teams will engage in the matter, Bertelli said. MACCIA also reminded Prada about the traditional handcrafted leather sandal being awarded Geographical Indication (GI) status by the Government of India in 2019. Bertelli's letter was in response to the one by Gandhi after outrage over Prada's footwear featured as part of its Spring-Summer 2026 collection this week. In its show notes, Prada had described the footwear as leather sandals, with no reference to an Indian connection, evoking outrage from many in India's fashion community as well as traditional makers of Kolhapuri chappals in western Maharashtra. Kolhapuri Chappals represent centuries-old craftsmanship rooted in the cultural fabric of Maharashtra, India. These products are not only symbolic of regional identity, but they also support the livelihoods of thousands of artisans and families in the Kolhapur region and surrounding districts, Gandhi's letter said. While we appreciate global fashion houses drawing inspiration from diverse cultures, we are concerned that this particular design appears to have been commercialized without due acknowledgment, credit, or collaboration with the artisan communities who have preserved this heritage through generations. We kindly urge Prada to acknowledge the inspiration behind the design publicly, explore possibilities for collaboration or fair compensation that could benefit the artisan communities involved and consider supporting ethical fashion practices that respect traditional knowledge and cultural rights, Gandhi wrote. Such a gesture would not only uphold ethical standards in global fashion, but also foster a meaningful exchange between heritage craftsmanship and contemporary design. We trust that a brand of Prada's stature and influence will take this concern in the right spirit and initiate a thoughtful response, Gandhi's letter to Prada said. In his response, Bertelli wrote, Please note that, for now, the entire collection is currently at an early stage of design. development and none of the pieces are confirmed to be produced or commercialized. We are committed to responsible design practices, fostering cultural engagement, and opening a dialogue for a meaningful exchange with local Indian artisan communities as we have done in the past in other collections to ensure the rightful recognition of their craft, he said. Prada strives to pay homage and recognize the value of such specialized craftspeople that represent an unrivalled standard of excellence and heritage. We would welcome the opportunity for further discussion and will set a follow up with the relevant Prada teams, Bertelli's letter to Gandi said. Artisans from Maharashtra have cried foul after footwear similar to the famous Kolhapuri chappals featured in Prada's show. They alleged violation of geographical identification (GI) rights. BJP MP Dhananjay Mahadik on Thursday led a delegation of artisans who make this traditional footwear to meet Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. They presented a letter urging him to look into the violation and preserve the product, which is a symbol of the state's cultural heritage.
Prada finally acknowledges Kolhapuri chappals inspiration for footwear in fashion show
The Italian house, however, said that sandals featured in the mens 2026 fashion show are still at the design stage and none of the pieces worn by models on the ramp are confirmed to be commercialised
Kolhapuri footwear makers allege GI breach by Prada
They presented a letter urging him to look into the violation and preserve the product, which is a symbol of the state's cultural heritage.
Maharashtra's people are not anti-Hindi, but it can't be imposed on primary students: Sharad Pawar
KOLHAPUR: NCP (SP) president Sharad Pawar on Friday said that the people of Maharashtra are not anti-Hindi, but it is not right to impose the language on young students in Class 1-4. Speaking to reporters here, he said 55 per cent of the country's population speaks Hindi, and one cannot ignore it. A language row erupted in Maharashtra after the state government last week issued an amended order stating Hindi will generally be taught as the third language to students in Marathi and English medium schools from Classes 1 to 5. As per the order, if 20 students per grade in a school wish to study any other Indian language, they can opt out of Hindi. If such a demand arises, either a teacher will be appointed or the language will be taught online. It is not right to impose Hindi on students of Class 1-4. During this age, mother tongue is more important, Pawar said, adding that it would be in their interest after Class 5, as 55 per cent of the people in India speak the language. The veteran politician said the people of Maharashtra are not opposed to Hindi. Asked about the protests announced by Uddhav Thackeray, who heads the Shiv Sena (UBT), and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, Pawar said, If the Thackerays want all political parties to join the protests, we need to know their stand and exact plans concerning this issue. The Sena (UBT) and MNS on Thursday said they will oppose all attempts to impose Hindi on students of the state and asserted it was an attempt by the ruling dispensation to foist language emergency and remove Marathi-ness. Addressing separate press conferences, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray announced protests on July 7 and 5, respectively.
Kolhapuri chappal makers cry foul over Pradas replica sandal
Artisans allege cultural appropriation and GI violation; seek legal action and formal recognition from the fashion brand
Meet the real artisans behind Indias iconic Kolhapuri chappals now in the global spotlight
Crafting a Kolhapuri chappal takes precision, a lot of handiwork, and a respect for the craft. Something that was missing at Pradas runway. We speak to a few of its makers, and designers giving it a contemporary spin
Pradas Kolhapuri Chappal Row: Five Times Global Fashion Brands Got Slammed For Cultural Theft
The latest controversy involves Prada, whose SS26 sandals closely resemble Maharashtra's Kolhapuri chappals, featuring the same open-toe design, vertical straps and tanned leather finish.
Prada A 'Chappal Chor'? All You Need To Know About The Kolhapuri Chappal Controversy
Prada showcased Kolhapuri chappals its Spring/Summer 2026 on the runway at Milan Fashion Week on Sunday.
Prada Faces Backlash Over Kolhapuri Chappals on Milan Runway
Luxury brand showcases traditional Indian sandals without credit, sparking cultural appropriation debate
Shobhaa De's Viral NDTV Clip: Kolhapuri Chappal And 1.2 Lakh Prada Row
Much like everything's fair game in love and war, author Shobhaa De downplayed the row over Prada unveiling Kolhapuri flats at a Milan show, without crediting its legacy, saying it's all fine in fashion, love, and war.
Prada's recent showcase in Milan featured sandals strikingly similar to traditional Kolhapuri chappals, priced at 1.2 lakh. The luxury brand faces backlash for cultural appropriation, failing to acknowledge the Indian artisans and heritage behind the design. Critics accuse Prada of cultural theft, demanding recognition and respect for the craft's origins.
While many were excited to see this footwear on a global platform, others felt disappointed that its Indian roots were not acknowledged
Viral: Prada launches Kolhapuri chappals, the price will shock you
Kolhapuri chappals, the iconic Indian handcrafted leather sandals, have just walked onto the global fashion stage. Luxury brand Prada has launched Kolhapuri-style chappals in its latest collection, with a price tag of around Rs.60,000 to Rs.80,000 a pair turning this humble Maharashtrian footwear into an international style statement. What was once crafted for rural comfort Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
The crucial Eliminator match experienced a strange occurrence when a misfield caused Kolhapur to forfeit a straightforward run-out opportunity. The footage of this incident has become viral on social media.
TRAGIC! Newly wed Kolhapur couple suffocate to death due to geyser gas leak
A newly wed couple died on Monday following geyser gas leak at Bhaveshwari Colony at Burude village in Ajara tehsil of Kolhapur.
