The three-day exhibition and seminar “Stories from Beneath the Heels” opened on November 28, 2024, at the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) in Hyderabad. Organized by the Pleach India Foundation and FDDI Hyderabad, the event has brought together scholars, designers, students, and artisans from across India to explore how traditional Indian footwear continues to inspire global trends. The initiative responds to a growing interest in craft heritage. The event was inaugurated by the Governor of Telangana, Jishnu Dev Varma, who emphasized the importance of documenting this often-overlooked aspect of culture. “We study posture, ornaments, the symbolism of our sculptures, but rarely do we pause to notice what lies beneath the heels,” the governor remarked [1][2].
Why the Market Misjudges Traditional Craftsmanship
The market often sidelines traditional craftsmanship, dismissing it as a relic of the past. This is a misconception. The Hyderabad exhibition demonstrates that padukas, jutti, Kolhapuri, Mojari, Pulla, Chamba footwear, Bharwadi Desi Joda, and Pabu handcrafts have not only survived but continue to shape the imagination of designers. Seven artisans from different states are showcasing their techniques and answering visitors’ questions. The exhibition space feels like a laboratory of cultural memory—Mojari sits beside Jutti, Pulla next to Chamba footwear, Kolhapuri meets Bharwadi Desi Joda. This is no museum, but a living narrative of identity and ritual [2][3].
How Prada and Kolhapuri Are Shaping Global Design
In 2024, the fashion world turned its gaze toward Indian motifs after luxury brand Prada acknowledged that its Spring/Summer 2026 sandals are inspired by Kolhapuri chappal traditions. Senior representatives from FDDI and Pleach India Foundation are clear: Indian footwear reflects not only regional craftsmanship but also social and ritual values. That’s why the exhibition attracts not just researchers but also Hyderabad’s local residents. Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary, sees this as an opportunity to better connect education with industry. “We urge society to return to traditional craft practices,” he stressed [2][1].
The program features academic presentations, special lectures, and interactive sessions. Experts discuss the history, design, craftsmanship, sustainability, and social significance of Indian footwear. The exhibition remains open to all on the FDDI campus until November 30 [1][2].