Indian footwear brands demand accountability from internationals labels
09 July, Mumbai 2025
Three major global footwear brands - Prada, Crocs, and Birkenstock - are currently embroiled in legal disputes in India, underscoring a growing demand for accountability from international labels operating in a market where tradition and design integrity hold significant weight.
Prada found itself in a storm of criticism following its Spring-Summer 2026 collection, which featured sandals strikingly similar to India's traditional Kolhapuri chappals, priced at an exorbitant Rs 1.2 lakh (approximately $1,440). Artisans and fashion commentators swiftly accused the luxury brand of cultural appropriation.
Holding a Geographical Indication (GI), the Kolhapuri chappal is a symbol of Indian heritage. While Prada issued a statement claiming inspiration from ‘Indian craftsmanship’ and noting the collection wasn't yet commercialized, the backlash persisted. A legal plea is now seeking a public apology and financial compensation, bringing to light the ongoing tension between cultural inspiration and exploitation in the global fashion industry.
Known for its iconic clogs, Crocs has revived a nearly decade-old lawsuit in India, accusing local manufacturers of copying its patented designs. The Delhi High Court has intervened, ordering inspections of factories in Agra and New Delhi to investigate alleged copyright violations. For Crocs, this legal action is crucial for protecting its billion-dollar brand from design theft in India's rapidly expanding market.
Celebrated for its minimalist and comfort-focused sandals, Birkenstock is also taking strong legal action against counterfeiters. In May 2025, the brand filed a case against fake footwear sellers operating around Agra, resulting in factory raids and the seizure of knock-off products.
With another hearing scheduled for October, Birkenstock is sending a clear message: authenticity is not just a marketing term but a legally protected stance.
Extending beyond mere footwear; these cases represent a significant reckoning for the fashion industry. Global labels are learning that they cannot simply borrow and rebrand cultural designs without facing consequences, especially in a country like India where craftsmanship is deeply intertwined with identity and legacy.
