Barbie announces first “Diwali doll” before the festival of lights

A new Barbie has joined Mattel’s line of inclusive dolls. The first “Diwali doll” was announced by the toymaker on Friday, weeks before the Hindu festival of Diwali, also known as the festival of lights.

The festival, which lasts five days, is shown on Western calendars as beginning on November 1, but some celebrations begin on October 31.

The doll, created in collaboration with fashion designer Anita Dongre, features traditional elements including the lehenga skirt, floral print and gold shoes, according to Mattel’s website. The doll is available at major retailers for $40.

“The look is infused with beauty and symbolism to rejoice in the victory of light over darkness with contemporary silhouettes,” reads the description of the Diwali doll.

Lalit Agarwal, country manager of Mattel India, said in a press release that through the Diwali doll, the brand hopes to showcase “India’s vibrant cultural heritage on the global stage while continuing to celebrate power and the beauty of diversity.

Earlier this year, Mattel announced the first-ever blind Barbie doll and a black Barbie with Down syndrome.

Additionally, to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8 and Barbie’s 65th birthday on March 9, the doll brand announced she was adding new dolls to her Role Models collection, based on real singers and actresses from around the world. They are not for sale: a one-of-a-kind doll was made for each of the women honored.

The dolls are intended to introduce “girls to stories of remarkable women to show them that you can be anything,” according to Mattel.

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