Fri Oct 04 21:47:41 UTC 2024: ## Barbie Teams Up with Indian Designer Anita Dongre for Diwali Special Doll
**MUMBAI, INDIA** – Toy giant Mattel has unveiled a new Barbie doll designed by acclaimed Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre, marking the brand’s first collaboration with an Indian designer.
The Barbie Signature Diwali doll, available globally for ₹1,999, celebrates the festive season with a vibrant ensemble designed by Dongre. The doll features a choli top, floral koti, and a lehnga adorned with classic Dongre elements like dahlias, jasmine, and lotus. Completing the look are a bindi, golden bangles, and earrings.
“The Barbie Diwali doll aims to showcase India’s vibrant cultural heritage on a global stage while continuing to celebrate the power and beauty of diversity,” said Lalit Agarwal, Country Manager of Mattel India, in a press release.
In an interview with Lounge, Dongre expressed her excitement about the collaboration. “I thought this was a great opportunity for me to show Indian fashion to the world, and I think Indian fashion needs more global representation,” she said.
Dongre emphasized the significance of Barbie as a symbol of inclusivity and a fashion icon. “It also gives you the potential to dream big; it inspires creativity,” she added.
The design process involved extensive back-and-forth between Dongre and Mattel, aiming for a contemporary yet distinctly Indian aesthetic. “I chose the blue color intentionally, since it’s a color associated with my brand,” Dongre explained. “The design is nature-inspired, which is also very much Anita Dongre (the brand).”
The koti, inspired by Rajasthan, was chosen to embody a modern Indian style. “I wanted to show how a young Indian girl would dress today,” Dongre stated.
The designer admitted the experience was a learning curve, as it was her first doll design. “Everything is tiny, everything is on a certain scale. So it’s a completely different game,” she said.
The Barbie Diwali doll is set to capture the hearts of collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike, bringing a touch of Indian style and festivity to the global stage.
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