New Delhi, Jan 9 (.) Italian luxury fashion house Prada has once again ignited discussions on social media with the launch of ‘Infusion de Santal Chai Eau de Parfum’, a “chai” or tea-inspired fragrance.
Blending high fashion with one of India’s most beloved daily rituals, Prada introduced the unisex perfume as part of its Les Infusions collection.
According to the brand’s Instagram account, the fragrance combines creamy sandalwood with spicy chai latte accords, layered with hints of citrus and cardamom to create a warm, woody and spicy scent.
The design of the perfume mirrors its concept, featuring a brown-toned glass bottle topped with a camel-colored Saffiano cap, evoking the comforting hues of a freshly brewed cup of tea.
The unconventional “chai” theme quickly sparked lively reactions on social media. While one user commented, “Omg I want to try!! Love the chai,” another wrote, “Indian chai, interesting.”
A third post praised Indian traditions, saying, “Every Indian product like Kolhapuri chappal, Paithani, food products and chai is great and useful for the world. Made in India.”
The launch has also revived memories of Prada’s earlier association with Kolhapuri chappals in India. In early 2025, a public interest litigation was filed in the Bombay High Court accusing the fashion house of copying Kolhapuri designs in its summer collection.
In response, a Prada team later visited India to understand the history and craftsmanship of the iconic footwear.
In December, Prada signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Maharashtra’s LIDCOM and Karnataka’s LIDKAR. Under the initiative titled Prada Made in India – Inspired by Kolhapuri Chappals, the collaboration aims to blend centuries-old traditional techniques with Prada’s contemporary design sensibilities, giving a modern reinterpretation to the traditional Kolhapuri craft.
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