From Kanpur Workshop to National Footwear Star
Founded in 2002 by Anil Gupta, Mardi Gras emerged from humble beginnings in Kanpur-India’s historic leather hub. The roots trace back to 1991, when the Gupta family’s business, Prachi Leathers, began crafting cowboy boot uppers for Western markets. Leveraging a deep understanding of leather craftsmanship, Anil Gupta set out to create stylish, durable, and affordable leather footwear tailored for Indian families-without compromising on quality.
Manufacturing Excellence: From Tannery to Final Stitch
Today, Mardi Gras operates with a vertically integrated setup-including an in-house tannery that processes up to 800 hides daily and offers 125+ leather types. This self-reliant model ensures full control over material quality, ethical sourcing, and product consistency-cornerstones of the brand’s enduring appeal.
Stylish, Comfortable, and Ethically Crafted
Mardi Gras is best known for its casual men’s sandals, floaters, and dual-strap designs and Kids Footwear priced between₹2,800–₹3,900-a sweet spot for urban consumers. Prioritizing elasticity, breathability, and responsible sourcing, the brand reflects Gupta’s belief that leather-when used consciously-can be both sustainable and character-building.
“Always wear genuine leather products, the trust consumers place in our brand is our most precious asset.”
– Anil Gupta
Growth, Reach & Modern Relevance
- 40,000+ happy customers and strong repeat purchases
- Available at top retailers and online platforms including Metro Shoes, Mochi, and Snapdeal
- Endorsed by public figures like filmmaker Shyam Benegal, actor-writer Atul Tiwari, and architect Mallika Arora
✔️ Why Mardi Gras Matters
| Feature | Impact |
|---|---|
| Indian-made, high-quality leather | Competes with global players on comfort and durability |
| Transparent, controllable backend | Builds product trust and ensures ethical production |
| Stylish yet practical design | Appeals to the modern, conscious Indian consumer |
Final Take
Over two decades of vision and leadership, Anil Gupta has grown Mardi Gras from a modest tannery in Kanpur into a beloved, homegrown brand defining comfort-forward leather footwear in India. As the brand continues to evolve, it remains a shining example of Indian manufacturing excellence-balancing style, sustainability, and value.
Do Visit: https://mardigras.co.in
