Thanksgiving has its turkey, Christmas has its tree, and now Diwali has its doll. After last year’s tremendous success, the festive season is set to sparkle once again with the return of Mattel Inc.’s 2024 Diwali Barbie. Rather than a new edition, this year marks the reintroduction of the beloved doll that won hearts across the globe.
The iconic brand has reunited with Indian designer Anita Dongre following an overwhelming response from collectors and families worldwide. The Diwali Barbie once again radiates elegance in Anita Dongre’s exquisite Moonlight Bloom lehenga, a choli top, floral koti vest, and lehenga skirt adorned with motifs of dahlias and jasmine.
Her face glows with a pair of striking chaandbalis, stacks of gold bangles on her wrist, and a dainty bindi that captures the quintessential Indian spirit. Her neatly tied ponytail accentuates her delicate features and reveals the artistry of her embroidered outfit, rich in intricate detail. The doll comes packaged in a beautifully designed box featuring hues that complement her attire and heighten the festive feel.
Commenting on the relaunch, Lalit Agarwal, Country Manager of Mattel India, said, “The reception to the Barbie x Anita Dongre doll last year was extraordinary, with fans and collectors embracing it as a meaningful celebration of representation and tradition. We are delighted to bring it back this season for everyone who missed the opportunity to bring this doll home.” The launch of the Diwali Barbie in 2024 marked an iconic and powerful moment for South Asian representation worldwide. It served as a love letter to every Indian and a celebration of Indian fashion on the global stage.
“The incredible response we received was profoundly moving, reminding us of the deep impact created when heritage finds expression in culture. I’m delighted that the doll is returning this year. It reaffirms our commitment to always being India-proud and stands as a testament to Barbie’s enduring legacy, a brand that has consistently championed imagination, inclusivity, and the belief that every young girl can be anything she aspires to be,” said designer Anita Dongre. Priced at INR 1,874, the Barbie x Anita Dongre doll is available for purchase nationwide.
