Newsbag

Gokhale’s slippers come in handy in hospitals, manufacturing units, computer labs, long-haul flights etc where removing outdoor footwear is a matter of cleanliness. The current practice is to wear slippers provided by the establishment concerned. But this isn’t hygienic since it will be used by others and could spread infection. To address this problem, the Pune-based designer came up with slippers made from recycled newsprint, kraft (strong wrapping paper) and other non-laminated paper pulp. Even the chord and the support tube of these slippers are made of twisted, unbleached kraft paper. Weighing just 35-45 gms, the slippers can be easily stored and transported and cost only around Rs 12 a pair. The production is also simple and does not use bleaching agents or artificial colours. Innovative in their use of papier-mache and ideal for tropical climates, these slippers absorb sweat. Their coarse, unfinished sole also provides the necessary grip on polished and natural surfaces.

"We treat it as a social cause," says Gokhale, the first Indian to win IDSA’s Business Week-sponsored award. In ’98, Gokhale and wife Falguni, both National Institute of Design alumni, founded Design Directions, a company focused on industrial design, visual communication, interactive design and brand-building. A best Indian designer award in ’04 from Businessworld magazine apart, Gokhale has designed over 150 products ranging from ballpoint pens to battery-operated vehicles and high-end machines, many of which are sold in over 25 countries. Inundated with enquiries, he now awaits a patent for Solemates.

By Harsh Kabra