4th October, Barbie, Mattel, India: Barbie®, in collaboration with globally recognized Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre, proudly unveils its first-ever Barbie Signature Diwali doll. This unique collaboration highlights Diwali, one of India’s most significant cultural celebrations, by combining the elegance of traditional Indian design with Barbie’s global legacy. Together, they aim to ensure that every kid can see themselves reflected in the brand for unlimited storytelling.
Since its inception in 1959, Barbie has been inspiring young girls to explore their limitless potential. Over the past six decades, Barbie has become an international icon, continuing to inspire generations worldwide. As part of its mission to celebrate diversity, Barbie has collaborated with many iconic designers, and now, for the first time, with an Indian designer, Anita Dongre, to create a doll that merges traditional heritage with modern global aesthetics.
To celebrate the festival of lights, the Barbie Signature Diwali doll shines in her finest Moonlight Bloom lehenga, designed by Anita Dongre, featuring a choli top, floral Koti vest, and a lehenga skirt adorned with delicate motifs of dahlias, jasmine, and Indian lotus—symbols of strength and beauty. She finishes her look with a radiant bindi, golden bangles and earrings that dazzle in the light. This doll encapsulates the elegance and joy of Diwali, celebrating both Indian artistry and craftsmanship.
Anita Dongre shared her excitement about the collaboration: “In celebration of Diwali, Barbie and I are both encouraging fans around the world to celebrate the beautiful heritage of Indian fashion and culture. 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.”
This collaboration reinforces Barbie’s continued commitment to ensuring that girls from all backgrounds can see themselves in the toys they engage with. By celebrating global traditions and highlighting cultural representation, Barbie continues to inspire the next generation.
Lalit Agarwal, Country Manager, Mattel India, shared his thoughts on the collaboration: “We are dedicated to reflecting the stories young girls see in the world around them through Barbie, and we couldn’t be more honored 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 Barbie Signature Diwali doll, priced at INR 1999, will be available globally starting October 4th, 2024, through major toy retailers online and offline. This doll is a perfect way to celebrate Diwali, offering families and collectors alike the chance to share in the joy and traditions of the festival.
