Snigdha Ahuja
Updated on: October 16, 2024 6:07 pm GMT
Barbie has stepped into a vibrant celebration with its debut of the first-ever Diwali doll, just in time for the Festival of Lights. This cherished celebration, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, is now represented in a unique way through the iconic doll.
A Special Collaboration
To create this unique doll, Barbie partnered with Anita Dongre, a prominent Indian designer known for her culturally rich fashion. This collaboration marks the first time Barbie has worked with a renowned Indian designer to commemorate such an important festival. Dongre shared her excitement in an interview, stating, “I was very, very excited when Mattel approached us — and this is almost like 18 months of support, and it’s like an absolute first for me.”
Inspiration from Jaipur
The stunning design of the Barbie Diwali doll draws inspiration from Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, where Dongre is from. The doll is dressed in a Moonlight Bloom set, featuring:
- A choli top
- A floral Koti vest
- An embroidered lehenga skirt adorned with dahlias, jasmine, and Indian lotus
These elements symbolize strength and beauty. The doll completes her look with delightful bangles, elegant gold earrings, and a sleek hairstyle styled in soft waves.
Embracing Modern India
Dongre’s vision for this doll goes beyond aesthetics. She wants to showcase a modern Indian girl who represents today’s India. “I wanted the doll to represent what India is today,” she explained. “The young Indian woman is intelligent, empowered, and modern. She wears India with pride.”
Empowerment through Play
A lifelong advocate for female empowerment, Dongre reflects on her childhood love for dolls. Despite Barbie not being available in India when she was young, she recalled playing with local dolls bought by her mother. She expressed, “I think playing with dolls as a young girl really instills creativity in you, and it’s such a beautiful part of growing up.”
Today, Dongre feels a unique pride in having designed her own Barbie doll. “It’s very special. I think playing with dolls creates so much imagination,” she said.
Celebrating Diwali with Barbie
The launch of the Barbie Diwali doll is more than just a new product; it’s a celebration of culture and creativity. The doll aims to inspire not only children but also parents who value representation in toys. “I think the fact that Barbie is celebrating Diwali is so special today,” Dongre noted.
The Barbie Diwali doll is now available at major retailers. Fans can also shop online, with links to purchase directly available on platforms like Good Morning America. Note that prices may vary as they are dynamic.
A Bright Future Ahead
This release reflects a broader trend in the toy industry, which increasingly acknowledges and celebrates diverse cultures and traditions. The Barbie Diwali doll aims to foster understanding and appreciation of the Hindu festival, encouraging children to connect with different cultures through play.
As we embrace different cultures and festivals, products like the Barbie Diwali doll serve as bridges. They help children learn about traditions and values from around the world. Dongre’s vision for the doll emphasizes the importance of culture, identity, and the empowerment of young girls.
In conclusion, the Barbie Diwali doll is an important step toward including everyone. It shares a story of hope, love, and strength that matches the spirit of Diwali. This year, as families come together to celebrate the festival, they can enjoy the story of a doll that represents the beautiful culture of India, making their celebration even more special.
