LIDCOM Karkar Kolhapuri Chappal – Pure Leather Handmade Footwear by Local Artisans of Kolhapur

The LIDCOM Karkar Kolhapuri Chappal represents the pride and heritage of Maharashtra’s traditional leather craftsmanship. These chappals are meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans of LIDCOM in Kolhapur, a region globally recognised for producing authentic Kolhapuri footwear. Made using pure, genuine leather sourced from high-quality buffalo or cowhide, these chappals are designed for long-lasting comfort, durability, and cultural elegance.

Each pair undergoes several stages of handcrafting — cutting, soaking, shaping, stitching, braiding, polishing — all performed using age-old artisanal techniques passed down through generations. This entirely handmade process ensures that no two pairs are exactly alike, making each chappal a unique form of wearable art. The classic Karkar sound produced while walking on gravel is a hallmark of original Kolhapuri craftsmanship.

LIDCOM’s contribution to Maharashtra’s artisan ecosystem goes beyond production. The organisation supports traditional craftsmen by providing fair wages, stable livelihoods, capacity-building training, and access to wider markets. Purchasing this pair means directly contributing to sustaining the cultural legacy of Kolhapuri artisans and preserving a handmade heritage that is rapidly disappearing in today’s mechanised footwear industry.

Key Features

• Pure Leather Construction: Crafted from strong, flexible, long-lasting natural leather that softens beautifully over time.
• Traditional Handcrafted Finish: Expert artisans create each chappal using hand-stitching, braiding, and natural polishing techniques.
• Authentic T-Strap Kolhapuri Style: The signature toe loop ensures a secure, comfortable fit with a heritage look.
• GI Certified Craftsmanship: Made in Kolhapur — known for its Geographical Indication (GI) registered Kolhapuri chappals.
• Long-Lasting Durability: Built to withstand regular daily use while becoming more comfortable with wear.

Benefits

• Softens naturally with time, adapting to your foot shape for personalized comfort.
• Perfect for everyday wear, festive attire, cultural outfits, and ethnic events.
• Strong handmade construction ensures long life and reliable outdoor performance.
• Symbol of Maharashtrian heritage and artisanal pride.
• Buying supports artisan families and preserves traditional leather craft.

Cultural & Traditional Significance

Kolhapuri chappals are centuries-old footwear associated with Maharashtrian rural culture and royal styling. The natural tanning, vegetable dyes, intricate braiding, and classic designs make these chappals one of India’s most respected handicraft traditions. Wearing a genuine Kolhapuri Karkar chappal is not just a fashion choice—it is an appreciation of cultural identity and traditional artistry.

SHG Empowerment & Artisan Story

The artisans supported through LIDCOM represent generations of families who have relied on leather crafting as their primary livelihood. Through structured SHG models, training support, and fair market access, artisans now earn stable incomes and gain recognition for their skills. Every pair sold promotes sustainable development and encourages younger generations to preserve this heritage craft.

How to Use

• Ideal for casual, ethnic, and festive wear.
• Pair with kurtas, jeans, sarees, indo-western outfits, dhotis, and daily ethnic wear.
• Wear regularly to allow leather to soften naturally.
• Store in a dry place and avoid prolonged moisture exposure.

Elevate your wardrobe with authentic, handmade heritage footwear. Order the LIDCOM Karkar Kolhapuri Chappal today from UmedMart.com and walk with cultural elegance.