Toy maker Mattel has announced the launch of the new Diwali Barbie Doll in collaboration with ace Indian designer Anita Dongre. This Diwali Barbie represents the fashion-forward modern woman who wears her Indian heritage with pride. Explore what this unique fusion of Indian fashion and culture has to offer!
Anita Dongre’s Diwali Barbie doll | Instagram
New Delhi: Barbie is evolving to embrace greater diversity, with Mattel—Barbie’s owner—in a commitment to promoting celebrations of Indian heritage—announcing a collaboration with Indian designer Anita Dongre for the first time. This special edition doll will celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, which is just around the corner.
Dongre, known for her work in fashion, drew inspiration from her roots in Jaipur to create the doll’s outfit. She expressed her joy in designing a doll that reflects the modern Indian woman—strong, empowered, and proud of her heritage. Dongre hopes to inspire fans worldwide to appreciate Indian fashion and culture.
The doll features a stunning outfit with a blue choli top, a floral Koti vest, and a lehenga skirt adorned with dahlias, jasmine, and lotus flowers, which represent strength and beauty. The look is completed with golden bangles and shimmering earrings that echo the lights of Diwali.
In creating this Barbie, Dongre aimed to represent the confident young Indian woman. She wants every South Asian child to feel pride when they see this doll. According to Dongre, the Diwali Barbie embodies the changing spirit of India. The Diwali Barbie is for the youth of today, reminding them they can honour their roots while being modern.
Anita Dongre’s Diwali Barbie doll
Dongre’s Diwali Barbie wears a blue sleeveless coatee paired with a Moonlight Bloom lehenga, featuring intricate floral motifs. The design draws on traditional pichwai art, showcasing the rich heritage of Indian prints. The deep midnight blue and floral designs were a natural choice for this celebration. The packaging also reflects this colour, adorned with geometric florals designed by Dongre and the Barbie team for a festive touch.
This Barbie also sports a trendy middle parting, a style that has sparked discussions among millennials and Gen Z, with Gen Z favouring this look. When asked if her Barbie represents millennials or Gen Z, Dongre highlighted the doll’s modern sensibilities and individuality.
The Diwali Barbie is available globally for Rs. 1,999.
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