Kolhapuri chappals are more than just footwear — they are a piece of India’s living history. Handcrafted for over 800 years in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur region, each pair tells a story of skill, patience, and cultural pride. At VHAAN, we preserve this tradition by working with skilled artisans who follow time-honored methods, ensuring every chappal is as authentic as it is beautiful.
At VHAAN, India’s No. 1 destination for real Kolhapuri chappals and the pioneer of authentic Kolhapuri chappals online, we work directly with the largest network of genuine Kolhapuri craftsmen to bring you designs that are 100% authentic. Our collection is the biggest in the country, showcasing rare ethnic patterns and timeless designs trusted by Kolhapuri enthusiasts across the globe.
In this guide, we take you inside the artisan process — from raw leather to the final polish — so you can see what makes Kolhapuri chappals truly special.
Step 1: Selecting the Leather
The journey begins with premium, full-grain leather, traditionally sourced from local tanneries. Artisans choose each hide for strength, flexibility, and texture.
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Historically, vegetable tanning was used, relying on natural agents like babul bark for durability.
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At VHAAN, we maintain these eco-friendly methods wherever possible, ensuring the leather is strong yet soft against the skin.
Step 2: Hand-Cutting the Base
Using traditional hand tools, the artisan cuts the leather into the sole and upper patterns. This step requires precision — a single miscut can alter the comfort and balance of the final product.
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The patterns used are often family secrets, passed down through generations.
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The sole’s thickness is adjusted based on the design — from lightweight everyday wear to sturdy festival chappals.
Step 3: Soaking & Softening
Before any stitching begins, the cut leather pieces are soaked in water or natural oils to make them pliable and easy to shape.
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This softening step also helps the leather mold perfectly to the wearer’s feet over time.
Step 4: Braiding & Stitching
This is where Kolhapuri chappals earn their iconic look.
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Artisans braid thin leather strips into intricate designs such as pukale, kanwali, or kapsi.
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No machines are used — every stitch is done by hand, ensuring the chappal is both strong and flexible.
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The upper and sole are joined using thick leather cords, which outlast synthetic threads.
Step 5: Dyeing & Polishing
Traditionally, natural dyes from plant and mineral sources were used. Today, VHAAN uses eco-safe dyes that respect the environment while delivering deep, lasting colors.
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The dyeing process is followed by hand-polishing to bring out the leather’s natural sheen.
Step 6: Drying & Quality Check
The chappals are sun-dried under controlled conditions to set their shape.
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Each pair undergoes a final inspection for stitching strength, symmetry, and comfort.
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Only chappals meeting VHAAN’s high standards make it to our customers.
The Human Touch Behind Every Pair
Every VHAAN Kolhapuri chappal represents hours of labor, years of training, and generations of tradition. Many of our artisans learned the craft from their parents and grandparents, keeping alive techniques that have remained unchanged for centuries.
"Making a Kolhapuri chappal is not just work, it’s an act of devotion." — Master Artisan, VHAAN
Why VHAAN’s Kolhapuri Chappals Are Different
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Authentic Craftsmanship: Handmade in Kolhapur using time-honored techniques
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Premium Leather: Ethically sourced, eco-friendly tanning
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Comfort & Durability: Designed to last for years, molding to your feet with wear
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Heritage with Style: Classic patterns reimagined for modern fashion
Why VHAAN is the Most Trusted Name for Kolhapuris
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India’s No. 1 Destination for authentic Kolhapuri chappals
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Pioneer of Kolhapuri chappal online retail
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Biggest network of real craftsmen preserving the tradition
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Largest collection of rare and ethnic designs
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Heritage Quality Guarantee with every pair
At VHAAN, we don’t just sell chappals — we protect a legacy. When you wear a VHAAN Kolhapuri, you’re not just buying footwear; you’re wearing centuries of history, tradition, and unmatched artistry.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Kolhapuri chappals are more than footwear — they are a symbol of India’s cultural identity. By choosing authentic, handmade chappals, you are helping sustain artisan livelihoods and preserve an art form that has stood the test of time.
Explore the VHAAN Kolhapuri Chappal Collection and step into history with every pair you wear