Discover the journey of Kolhapuri chappals from India to the global market. 100% handcrafted leather sandals, exported by SG International.
Kolhapuri chappals are not just footwear — they are a living tradition, a symbol of India’s artisanal excellence that has stood the test of time. Handcrafted in Maharashtra with care, culture, and craftsmanship, these leather sandals have gone from being a humble local utility to gaining recognition as a global fashion statement.
At SG International, we take immense pride in being part of this journey — helping share this piece of Indian heritage with the world, while supporting the artisans who keep the tradition alive.
Rooted in Tradition: The Birthplace of Kolhapuri Chappals
The story of Kolhapuri chappals begins in the culturally rich town of Kolhapur, located in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Here, for generations, skilled artisans have practiced the delicate and demanding art of handcrafting leather sandals using age-old techniques passed down through families.
Each pair of chappals is made from naturally processed leather and colored using vegetable-based dyes, making them eco-friendly and sustainable. What makes them even more remarkable is the complete lack of industrial machinery in the process — every stitch, every cut, and every design is done by hand.
Depending on the design, a single pair of Kolhapuris can take anywhere from several hours to a few days to complete. The final result is not just a shoe, but a piece of functional art — durable, breathable, and uniquely beautiful.
The Craftsmanship Behind Every Pair
The process of making a Kolhapuri chappal involves multiple steps:
- Leather selection and treatment using traditional eco-friendly techniques
- Cutting and shaping the sole and straps by hand
- Hand-stitching and detailing using tools passed down through generations
- Natural drying and polishing, giving each pair its signature finish
This craftsmanship ensures that no two pairs are exactly the same. Each one carries its own imperfections, character, and story, reflecting the hand of the artisan behind it.
From Kolhapur to the World: The Global Rise of Kolhapuris
While once restricted to rural and local markets, Kolhapuri chappals are now making their mark across the globe. Their distinctive look, ethical production process, and comfort have attracted attention from:
- Ethical fashion enthusiasts
- Boutique retailers in Europe and North America
- Cultural and ethnic fashion lines
- Online handmade marketplaces
Their popularity is also fueled by the global demand for sustainable, handmade products. In a world where fast fashion dominates, Kolhapuris offer something truly authentic and enduring.
At SG International, we support this global demand by preparing Kolhapuri chappals for bulk export — enabling wholesalers, fashion retailers, and lifestyle brands to add a piece of India’s heritage to their offerings.
What Makes Kolhapuri Chappals Truly Special?
Kolhapuris are not just beautiful — they are thoughtfully made. Here’s why they stand out:
- ✅ 100% Handcrafted: No machines involved — every detail is handmade
- ✅ Eco-Friendly Processing: Naturally tanned leather and vegetable dyes
- ✅ Long-Lasting Durability: Designed to last for years with minimal wear
- ✅ Stylish Yet Timeless: Pairs beautifully with both traditional and modern outfits
- ✅ Cultural Value: A true representation of Indian craftsmanship
They are more than footwear — they are a fusion of tradition, art, and purpose.
SG International’s Role in Promoting This Legacy
At SG International, we work closely with artisan clusters and production units in Maharashtra to source authentic, high-quality Kolhapuri chappals. Our role extends beyond logistics — we support:
- Ethical sourcing and fair trade practices
- Quality checks and modern packaging for exports
- Flexible bulk orders for B2B buyers
- Branding and private labeling support for fashion retailers
We ship Kolhapuri chappals to international markets with full export documentation, ensuring smooth customs clearance and compliance with destination-country standards.
Join Us in Supporting Indian Artistry
When you buy or distribute Kolhapuri chappals, you’re not just selling a product — you’re telling a story. You’re preserving a tradition. You’re giving livelihood to artisans who rely on this age-old skill for their sustenance.
Whether you’re a retailer, importer, boutique brand, or wholesaler, SG International invites you to become a part of this journey — sharing India’s artistic soul with the world, one pair of handcrafted chappals at a time.
Interested in Exporting Kolhapuri Chappals?
We’d love to hear from you. Whether you want to start a new product line or add authentic Indian footwear to your catalog, our team is here to help.
Contact Us today to request a quote or partnership discussion.