Prada Infusion de Santal Chai Launch Triggers Mixed Reactions

Luxury fashion house Prada has begun 2026 with a high-profile fragrance launch—but not without controversy. Prada Infusion de Santal Chai, the latest addition to its Les Infusions de Prada fragrance line, debuted globally on January 5 and has already sparked intense discussion across social media and fragrance communities.

Positioned as a winter-ready scent, the perfume is described by Prada as an indulgent blend inspired by “the creamiest notes and the warm, spicy aroma of India’s most cherished drink.” The fragrance features warm, spicy and woody accords, housed in Prada’s signature brown glass bottle topped with a camel-coloured Saffiano leather cap. It is priced at $190 (approximately £150) and is available via Prada Beauty and select international retailers.

Fragrance Enthusiasts Split on Chai Interpretation

While the concept of Prada Infusion de Santal Chai initially intrigued fragrance enthusiasts, online reactions quickly became divided. Some consumers welcomed the idea of a comforting, chai-inspired perfume suitable for colder months.

However, others questioned whether the fragrance truly captures the essence of traditional masala chai. Critics argue that the scent leans more toward lactonic and powdery notes—often compared to milk powder—rather than the bold spices typically associated with Indian chai, such as cardamom, ginger, clove, and cinnamon.

Influencers and reviewers continue to debate whether the perfume delivers on its promise or uses the “chai” label more as an aesthetic reference than an authentic sensory interpretation.

Cultural Context Adds to the Controversy

The discussion surrounding Prada Infusion de Santal Chai has also revived scrutiny of Prada’s recent engagement with Indian-inspired elements. In 2025, the brand faced backlash over a luxury leather sandal that closely resembled the traditional Kolhapuri chappal—priced at around ₹1.2 lakh—which led to accusations of cultural appropriation.

That episode remains fresh in public memory, intensifying current conversations around whether the fragrance represents cultural appreciation or oversimplification. For some critics, the naming and marketing of the perfume risk reducing a culturally significant beverage to a stylistic motif.

A Broader Luxury Industry Conversation

The response to Prada Infusion de Santal Chai reflects a wider debate within the global luxury industry. As brands increasingly draw inspiration from diverse cultures, questions around originality, respect, and contextual understanding continue to surface.

Supporters view the fragrance as a warm, globally inspired creation that blends comfort with elegance. Detractors, however, argue that cultural references should be handled with deeper nuance—especially when linked to traditions with strong regional and emotional significance.

The Bottom Line

Whether Prada Infusion de Santal Chai becomes a seasonal favourite or remains a point of cultural contention is yet to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the launch has ensured a lively start to 2026—placing Prada once again at the centre of conversations around luxury, inspiration, and cultural storytelling.