Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Luxury brand Prada’s metallic men’s tote bag has taken the internet by storm, with many comparing its texture to Mumbai’s BEST bus floors and Indian train flooring.
The Prada Metallic Spazzolato Embossed Tote Bag is priced at ₹3,31,040.62 (~$3,729.55) for pre-owned pieces, blending quirky design with luxury branding.
Netizens are torn between fascination and ridicule, with the bag sparking a wave of memes and comparisons to everyday Indian public transport floors.
Earlier, Prada faced backlash for sandals resembling traditional Kolhapuris during its Spring/Summer 2026 runway show, raising debates on cultural appropriation vs. global inspiration.
After the controversy, Prada visited India and launched a limited edition “Made in India” Kolhapuri sandal, collaborating with local artisans to honor the craft authentically.
A PIL was filed in the Bombay High Court against Prada for alleged unauthorized use of Kolhapuri designs. The bench dismissed the case, marking a legal resolution in Prada’s favor.
These incidents highlight the tension between luxury fashion houses and cultural heritage, as Indian craftsmanship increasingly inspires global designs.
While some may find the bag’s train floor aesthetic bizarre, others see it as playful, ironic luxury, reflecting a quirky take on everyday Indian textures.
Prada’s recurring use of Indian-inspired motifs signals India’s growing footprint in global fashion, whether through homage or controversy.