This Year, Barbie Gets A Solid Makeover for Diwali

The festive season always witnesses many grand, opulent collaborations. There are festive edits and exclusive collections, all meant to celebrate the rich heritage and also the celebratory cheer in the air .Think Jimmy Choo's annual Diwali capsule collection, Louis Vuitton's Rani Pink India Exclusive Edition, and Christian Louboutin x Sabyasachi collaboration among others

This time around Mattel has chosen to highlight one of the biggest celebrations in the country–Diwali. Combining Barbie’s global legacy and the traditions of the country, the Barbie Signature Diwali doll not only signifies the joy and warmth the festivities bring along but also Barbie’s commitment to ensuring appropriate cultural representation.

“In celebration of Diwali, Barbie and I are both encouraging fans around the world to celebrate the beautiful heritage of Indian fashion and culture," shared Anita Dongre, in the press note, "My brand has always been driven by a mission to empower through fashion, and as the ultimate symbol of women empowerment, partnering with Barbie to create the Barbie Diwali doll couldn’t be a more perfect alignment of our values.”

Grace and elegance combined

The Barbie Signature Diwali doll is a collector’s delight. Look closely and you will notice many elements ofpichwaiand Dongre’s signature floral work. Adorning the Moonlight Bloom lehenga in midnight blue—the ensemble features a choli top, floral Koti vest, and a lehenga skirt.

Replete with dahlias, jasmine, and Indian lotus—the ensemble symbolises strength and beauty. The Barbie’s look is completed with a radiant bindi, golden bangles and earrings. The packaging is also in the same blue, featuring geometric florals for a festive finish.

Since its inception in 1959, Barbie has inspired young girls and has gone on to become an international icon. They have collaborated with many iconic designers, but this is the first where an Indian designer’s design sensibilities have merged with modern global aesthetics.

Lalit Agarwal, Country Manager, Mattel India, shared his thoughts on the collaboration, saying, “We are dedicated to reflecting the stories young girls see in the world around them through Barbie, and we couldn’t be more honoured to partner with renowned Indian couturier Anita Dongre to create a doll that furthers this mission. Through the Barbie Diwali doll, Barbie is thrilled to showcase India’s vibrant cultural heritage on a global stage while continuing to celebrate the power and beauty of diversity.”

The Diwali Barbie retails globally at INR 1,999.