Diwali Barbie has arrived!
Written by Site Hub on October 20, 2024
The new Diwali Barbie, released on October 4, 2024, has generated significant attention, selling out on Mattel’s website within 24 hours. This Barbie, designed in collaboration with Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre, marks a departure from previous Indian Barbies, which were criticized for their inaccurate representations of Indian culture and overly pale skin tones. The new doll features darker skin, dark eyes, and wears a fashionable lehenga, abandoning the traditional saree.
Many Indians are excited about this fresh take on Barbie. Fans like Vichitra Rajasingh from Madurai appreciate the more authentic look and modern fashion of the Diwali Barbie. Meanwhile, cookbook author Nandita Godbole reflects on how such a doll would have positively impacted her daughter’s experiences growing up in a society where lighter skin was often favored.
Despite some ongoing discussions about skin tone, the Diwali Barbie is widely seen as a step forward in representing Indian beauty and culture.
Source: NPR
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