Key points
- Neena Gupta posts a video wearing Kolhapuri chappals gifted by late actor Laxmikant Berde
- Joins Kareena Kapoor in highlighting resemblance to a Prada sandal design
- Luxury brand showcased similar footwear at Milan Fashion Week without reference to Indian origins
- Both actresses emphasised the value of original handmade designs
Neena Gupta backs Kolhapuri chappals after Prada controversy
Veteran Indian actress Neena Gupta has weighed in on the ongoing conversation around Prada’s recent footwear collection after actress Kareena Kapoor earlier pointed out the brand’s use of a traditional Indian design without acknowledgement.
In a video shared on Instagram, Gupta showcased a pair of handmade Kolhapuri chappals gifted to her by the late actor Laxmikant Berde. Sharing the story behind the slippers, she said, “So, these Kolhapur slippers are in great demand these days. Once I did something with Laxmikant Berde—I don't remember what it was—so I asked him, can you get me these slippers from Kolhapur? He said yes. So he got them for me. This is the most beautiful slippers I have ever had. Most beautiful and handmade. I love them. Thank you, Laxmikant. You are not there anymore, but love you.”
Gupta concluded her post with a caption that read, “Real toh real hota hai..”, praising the authenticity and craftsmanship of traditional Indian footwear.
Kareena Kapoor earlier criticised Prada
Gupta’s post comes shortly after Kareena Kapoor’s Instagram story where she posted a photo of her Kolhapuri chappals with the caption, “Sorry not Prada…but my OG Kolhapuri.” The comment was interpreted as a subtle response to Prada’s new sandal design, which many users online noted bore a strong resemblance to the traditional Indian style.
Prada presented the footwear at its Men’s Spring/Summer 2026 show in Milan on 22 June. The design, referred to as ‘Toe Ring Sandals’, did not include any reference to its resemblance to the Indian Kolhapuri chappals, sparking debate over cultural appropriation and lack of credit to traditional artisans.
Current projects
Kareena Kapoor was last seen in Singham Again, alongside Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Tiger Shroff.
Neena Gupta recently appeared in Metro In Dino, which was released on 4 July.
Romesh Ranganathan makes his first West End appearance in Woman in Mind alongside Sheridan Smith Getty Images 
Romesh portrays Bill the doctor linking Susan’s real and imagined worlds on stage Getty Images
