Agra beyond the Taj; THE SHOEMAKING LEGACY
Shoes and Accessories|January/February 2024
Agra, synonymous with the Taj Mahal, a testament to enduring love, has transcended its historical association to emerge as a city with a distinct identity beyond the Taj’s shadow.
Agra beyond the Taj; THE SHOEMAKING LEGACY

Agra- A city & the Shoe

- Lavi Pal Singh & Amit Chopra

India boasts an extensive legacy of craftsmanship spanning millennia. Despite enduring outside invasions, imperial reigns, and foreign trade, India's artisanal traditions have persevered, maintaining their heritage in numerous facets. Across centuries, Indian handicrafts have adapted, assimilating influences from diverse cultures, religions, and geographic regions.

This rich tapestry extends to India's footwear industry, exemplified by the ancient "Padukas" from Vedic times and the unassuming yet iconic Kolhapuri chappals. From the vibrant Punjabi juttis to the intricate mojaris and even immortalized in Raj Kapoor's famed song "Joota hai Japani," India's shoe-making history encapsulates a myriad of styles and influences.

Agra's time-honoured footwear industry recently clinched the coveted Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognizing its shoe-making heritage as "Agra Leather Footwear." Delving into the industry's journey over the decades, we uncover a roller coaster ride marked by resilience and adaptability, propelling Agra to its current status as a premier hub for both domestic sales and exports in the shoemaking domain.

Furthermore, we explore the roots of the GI designation and its pivotal role as a potent marketing instrument for India's robust handicraft and manufacturing sector, notably exemplified by the acclaimed Agra Leather Footwear.

Agra- The City Origins

Tracing its roots back to the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Agra was referred to as 'Agraban,' where 'ban' denoted "forest" in Sanskrit, portraying its origins as an arid wooded area. Legend attributes the city's establishment to Raja Badal Singh around 1475 A.D. However, Agra gained prominence when Sikandar Lodi shifted the capital from Delhi in 1506, marking a turning point in its history.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM SHOES AND ACCESSORIESView all
Generative AI Empowering Fashion Retail
Shoes and Accessories

Generative AI Empowering Fashion Retail

In today’s world of rapid technological change, the idea that machines might become smarter than humans has moved from science fiction to a possible reality.

time-read
9 mins  |
May/June 2024
ECCO Steps into India: AIMS TO LAUNCH 50 STORES IN 5 YEARS
Shoes and Accessories

ECCO Steps into India: AIMS TO LAUNCH 50 STORES IN 5 YEARS

From the introduction of Direct Injection Technology to the establishment of production facilities in key regions such as China and Vietnam, ECCO's commitment to innovation has remained unwavering...

time-read
10+ mins  |
May/June 2024
APLF 2024 Show Report
Shoes and Accessories

APLF 2024 Show Report

A Global Reunion of Leather, Material, and Fashion Industries: APLF 2024

time-read
5 mins  |
May/June 2024
BEST FOOT FORWARD: Footwear is the Sole of the Indian Retail Industry
Shoes and Accessories

BEST FOOT FORWARD: Footwear is the Sole of the Indian Retail Industry

As India steps towards becoming a global economic powerhouse, the footwear retail sector is poised for remarkable growth and transformation.

time-read
6 mins  |
May/June 2024
Earthly Elegance-Myaraa
Shoes and Accessories

Earthly Elegance-Myaraa

Cast-offs the foundation of a sustainable luxury brand

time-read
7 mins  |
May/June 2024
From Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurship: Abhishek Ganguly's Journey to Co-Founding Agilitas
Shoes and Accessories

From Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurship: Abhishek Ganguly's Journey to Co-Founding Agilitas

Founded with a vision to transform the industry, Agilitas boasts a comprehensive approach, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, robust research and development centres, and visionary product design labs...

time-read
5 mins  |
May/June 2024
CHUPPS Slide into Recovery
Shoes and Accessories

CHUPPS Slide into Recovery

In the dynamic realm of athletic recovery, every stride holds the potential for rejuvenation. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a dedicated enthusiast, the journey to peak performance is as much about restorative care as it is about rigorous training. This is where CHUPPS emerges as a beacon of innovation, reshaping the landscape of sliders with a keen focus on sports recovery.

time-read
2 mins  |
May/June 2024
Stepping Towards Expansion: INC.5
Shoes and Accessories

Stepping Towards Expansion: INC.5

With a network spanning over 220 retail outlets nationwide, Inc.5 is rapidly emerging as the preferred choice for discerning individuals. Marking a significant milestone of 25 years in the industry, the brand has garnered a dedicated following for its premium leather footwear and accessories.

time-read
6 mins  |
May/June 2024
ON THE RADAR
Shoes and Accessories

ON THE RADAR

Here we uncover our sizzling selection of Hot Picks” a handpicked assortment of products that are turning up the heat in the market.

time-read
8 mins  |
May/June 2024
A Resounding Success for the Leather Industry in Bangkok
Shoes and Accessories

A Resounding Success for the Leather Industry in Bangkok

APLF ASEAN 2023 was a game-changer for ASEAN on the global stage, providing a magnificent platform for emerging designers and catering comprehensively to industry needs under one roof.

time-read
4 mins  |
January/February 2024