Claims Emerge Over Resemblance to Indian Train Flooring
Memes Spread on Social Media; Criticism Over "Playful Design"
The Italian luxury brand Prada has sparked heated debate online after releasing a men's bag priced at around 4 million won, which many have pointed out bears a striking resemblance to the flooring pattern found in Indian trains.
On September 29 (local time), international media outlets such as CNN-News18 and Free Press Journal reported that Prada’s new men’s tote bag has become a hot topic on social networking services, as it looks remarkably similar to the floor of Indian railway carriages.
Prada’s New Bag: “Exactly Like Train Floors” Spreads on Social Media
Luxury brand Prada's new bag has been embroiled in allegations of directly copying the flooring material of Indian trains. Instagram capture
The product at the center of the controversy is a men’s tote bag made of metallic material, featuring a sleek industrial finish and leather details. According to the brand, it aims for a minimalist sophistication and comes equipped with a dustproof storage bag and a dedicated compartment for a water bottle. Locally, the bag is priced at 273,000 rupees (approximately 4.4 million won).
After the model was released, the online reaction was intense. Witty comments included, “The designer must have visited India recently,” “We should be paid royalties #MumbaiLocal,” and “Prada loves India.” Memes featuring photoshopped images of the Prada bag against the backdrop of Indian trains have spread widely on social media. On the other hand, negative responses have also poured in, such as, “Luxury brands have lost their minds,” “Someone in the design department is definitely playing a prank,” and “This is plagiarism, too.”
Does Prada Have a Unique Love for India? ... Previous Controversy Over Copying Traditional Sandals
Citizens purchasing traditional Indian footwear called 'Kolhapuri' sandals at a store in New Delhi, India. Photo by Reuters Yonhap News
Some have commented on the men’s sandals unveiled last summer, saying, “Prada’s love for India is extraordinary.” Previously, at the Milan Men’s Fashion Week in June, Prada showcased T-shaped sandals featuring open toes and leather straps. This design was soon criticized for its strong resemblance to the Kolhapuri chappal, a handmade leather shoe that has been crafted for centuries in the Kolhapur region of Maharashtra, India, leading to accusations of “cultural appropriation.”
Indian netizens criticized Prada, saying, “Prada has stolen our culture” and “They are commercially exploiting our traditional heritage.” The Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce officially sent a letter of protest to Prada. As the controversy grew, Prada issued an official statement acknowledging, “These sandals were indeed inspired by traditional Indian footwear produced in parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka.”
Recurring Controversies Over Cultural Appropriation
The fashion industry has repeatedly faced accusations of “cultural appropriation.” In 2015, French designer Isabel Marant was criticized for designing a blouse that borrowed from traditional Mexican indigenous clothing, and in 2020, she again faced official protests and demands for explanation from the Mexican government after unveiling a cape featuring indigenous Mexican patterns. In 2021, global brands such as Zara and Anthropologie were also criticized for unauthorized use of Mexican indigenous culture.
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