Edelweiss MF's Radhika Gupta on Prada-Kolhapuri row: 'This is why I'm obsessed with...'

Radhika Gupta said, 'As for Prada... Remember that till the lion learns to write, all stories will always glorify the hunter. Own your handlooms, own your narrative.' (Image credit: Radhika Gupta, AFP)

Days after Italian luxury fashion label Prada acknowledged the Indian roots of its new footwear line following a cultural appropriation controversy, Edelweiss Mutual Funds CEO and MD Radhika Gupta weighed in on the row, highlighting the critical need for crediting original sources and underscoring her passion for promoting Indian handlooms.

Taking to LinkedIn, Gupta articulated her views with a striking comparison: "Rs 500 chappal sold for Rs 1 lakh, without any credit!" This observation directly references the widely discussed similarity between Prada's new sandals and India's traditional Kolhapuri chappals.

Gupta's post passionately advocated for the preservation and promotion of India's rich textile heritage. "This is why I am obsessed with wearing and talking about handlooms," she wrote. She lamented the stark contrast in global recognition, stating, "Every child knows who Prada and Gucci are, but very few in a room know a Himroo, Sambalpuri or Narayanpet." For Gupta, "Our textile heritage and craftsmanship is for us to preserve, brand and benefit from."

She concluded her message with a proverb: "As for Prada... Remember that till the lion learns to write, all stories will always glorify the hunter. Own your handlooms, own your narrative."

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The controversy erupted after Prada showcased its new "leather footwear" with an open-toe braided pattern at Milan Fashion Week last week. The design bore a striking resemblance to the traditional Kolhapuri sandals, historically made in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The omission of any mention of Indian origins in Prada's initial description sparked widespread backlash and allegations of cultural appropriation across India.

In response to the growing criticism, Prada issued a statement to the BBC, confirming that it "recognises that the sandals are inspired by traditional Indian footwear." A Prada spokesperson said that the company has "always celebrated craftsmanship, heritage and design traditions", adding that it was "in contact with the Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture on this topic".