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The Royal Origins of Kolhapuri Chappal: Story of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj’s Iconic Footwear

by Kala Chappals, 10 Jul 2025

Kolhapuri Chappals – Footwear Fit for a King

The history of Kolhapuri Chappals is deeply rooted in Indian royalty — and one of the most fascinating stories begins with Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, the visionary ruler of Kolhapur in the early 20th century.

Far more than just a leather slipper, the Kolhapuri chappal symbolizes royal heritage, social reform, and skilled craftsmanship that lives on today — handcrafted by local artisans of Maharashtra and worn across the world.


👑 Who Was Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj?

Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj (1874–1922) was not just a ruler of Kolhapur but a great social reformer, educationist, and a champion of equality. His contributions to uplift backward communities and promote education are well documented in Indian history.

What many people don’t know is that he played a crucial role in popularizing the Kolhapuri chappal, a humble yet beautiful piece of handmade leather footwear.


👣 The Story of Shahu Maharaj's Chappal

The Kolhapuri chappal was originally designed to suit the needs of rural farmers and working men — it was durable, breathable, and ideal for the hot Deccan climate. But it was Shahu Maharaj’s personal endorsement that elevated this traditional footwear into a royal and cultural symbol.

Legend has it that Shahu Maharaj ordered a special kind of leather chappal, handmade by the best local cobblers of Kolhapur, with intricate designs and excellent finishing. These chappals were not only functional but stylish — they suited both his stature and his progressive vision of supporting local artisans.

From his royal court, these chappals made their way into public life — becoming popular among commoners, spiritual leaders, and eventually, modern fashion designers.

Shahu Maharaj Chappal Design -


Shahu Maharaj Chappal Design


🔥 Legacy That Lives On

Today, Kolhapuri chappals are GI-tagged (Geographical Indication), which protects their authenticity and heritage. The same techniques used over 100 years ago in Shahu Maharaj’s era are still in use — preserving the originality and essence of this traditional art.

By wearing a pair of Kolhapuri chappals today, you're literally walking in the footsteps of royalty.


🛍️ Where Tradition Meets Style

At KolhapuriChapples.com, we celebrate this rich legacy by offering chappals that are:

Whether you're a history buff, a fashion lover, or a tourist looking to bring home a piece of Indian heritage — a pair of Kolhapuri chappals connects you to a royal legacy.


📦 Shipping Across India and Internationally

We proudly ship across India and worldwide. Each pair of chappals supports local craftsmen and helps preserve a centuries-old tradition.


✨ Final Words

The next time you slip on a pair of Kolhapuri chappals, remember: you're not just wearing footwear — you're embracing a piece of Indian history, a tribute to Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, and the timeless craftsmanship of Kolhapur.

Browse our collection today → https://kolhapurichapples.com