During the festive season in India, American toy company Mattel has joined forces with celebrated fashion designer Anita Dongre to introduce a new Barbie doll with an Indian flair. The first-ever Barbie signature Diwali doll is adorned in a moonlight bloom lehenga, meticulously designed by Anita Dongre. The ensemble includes a choli top, floral Koti vest, and a lehenga skirt embellished with delicate motifs of dahlias, jasmine, and Indian lotus—symbols of strength and beauty.
The iconic figurine's look is enhanced with a traditional bindi, golden bangles, and earrings. This doll embodies the elegance and joy of Diwali, celebrating Indian artistry and craftsmanship. On the launch of the Diwali-inspired Barbie doll, Lalit Agarwal, Country Manager of Mattel India, stated in a press release, "We are committed to mirroring the stories young girls see in their surroundings through Barbie. We are honored to collaborate with the esteemed Indian couturier Anita Dongre to create a doll that aligns with this vision. Through the Barbie Diwali doll, Barbie is excited to display India's rich cultural heritage on a global platform while continuing to honor the beauty of diversity."
Anita Dongre also expressed her sentiments, saying, "In honor of Diwali, Barbie and I are both encouraging fans worldwide to celebrate the exquisite heritage of Indian fashion and culture. My brand has always been guided by a mission to empower through fashion, and as a symbol of women's empowerment, partnering with Barbie to create the Barbie Diwali doll is a perfect match of our shared values." This Indian Barbie also features a middle part with her hair neatly tied in a ponytail.
