Kolhapuri chappal is a traditional handcrafted leather slipper that originates from Kolhapur, a city in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Its roots date back to the 13th century, during the reign of King Bijjala and the saint-poet Basavanna, where locally tanned leather was used to make durable footwear for farmers and workers.
The style evolved into the modern Kolhapuri in the 1920s, when local families in Kolhapur and nearby villages like Athani, Ichalkaranji, and Sangli began producing and refining the design. Originally known for being sturdy, all-weather, and made without nails, these chappals gained popularity due to their comfort and craftsmanship.
They are typically made from vegetable-tanned buffalo leather, often adorned with intricate handwork, and dyed using natural colors. What makes them unique is their zero-metal construction and long-lasting durability—many pairs can last several years with daily use.
Today, Kolhapuri chappals have transcended their rural roots and become a symbol of ethnic fashion, widely worn across India and exported globally. They were also granted Geographical Indication (GI) status, protecting their identity and craftsmanship.
