Mattel releases first Diwali Barbie doll

Mattel is introducing its first Diwali Barbie doll, which the company says is being released as part of its “commitment to promoting celebrations of heritage.”

The doll, unveiled Friday, is a collaboration with Indian fashion designer Anita Dongre.

Diwali, the five-day Hindu festival of lights, is observed by more than 1 billion people worldwide. The festival is celebrated on Nov. 1.

In a statement, Dongre said the Barbie was created with the aim of “encouraging fans around the world to celebrate the beautiful heritage of Indian fashion and culture.”

The $40 doll sports a “Moonlight Bloom set with a choli top, floral Koti vest and lehenga skirt adorned with dahlias, jasmine and Indian lotus — symbols of strength and beauty,” Mattel said. “Golden bangles and shimmering earrings complete the look, reflecting the radiant lights of the festival.”

“We are dedicated to reflecting the stories young girls see in the world around them through Barbie,” Mattel India’s Lalit Agarwal said in a news release.

“Through the Barbie Diwali doll, Barbie is thrilled to showcase India’s vibrant cultural heritage on a global stage while continuing to celebrate the power and beauty of diversity,” Agarwal said.

In recent years, Mattel has launched a doll with Down syndrome, as well as figures modeled after Civil Rights Movement icon Rosa Parks, astronaut Sally Ride, Olympic figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi, Cherokee Nation chief Wilma Mankiller and one inspired by Anna May Wong to mark Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.