Current Affairs - State - Discussion

Kolhapuri chappals, renowned for their handcrafted leather craftsmanship, are a traditional footwear style originating from Maharashtra. These chappals have been in use since the 12th century and are typically made by local artisan communities using unique methods like applying black mud paste (kala mitti) to hold leather layers and employing decorative techniques such as chaprega. Their cultural and historical significance was officially recognized in 2019 when they received Geographical Indication (GI) status, affirming their association with a specific region and traditional craftsmanship. Maharashtra remains the primary hub for the creation of authentic Kolhapuri chappals.