'Not the first time': Redditors prove Diwali Barbie unveiled by Anita Dongre isn't the only lehenga-dressed doll

Diwali is just a few weeks away and little Indian girls have already gotten their gift! Ace fashion designer Anita Dongre and Barbie unveiled a new Diwali doll today through an Instagram post. Dressed in a traditional Rajasthani 'koti vest', the doll is actually a symbol of Indian and South Asian representation in the international market.?

Anita Dongre unveils new Diwali Barbie

In anticipation of the Festival of Lights, a Diwali-themed doll was released ahead of celebrations. The doll was dressed in a lehenga but with a modern touch. Instead of the typical lehenga, choli and dupatta combo, this doll was seen wearing a crop top, an A-line skirt and a vest. The navy blue outfit featured floral motifs and was paired with stylish gold-toned accessories including a stack of chunky bangles and statement earrings.

While the gold heels were a great touch, the Indian-inspired makeup was further elevated by a traditional pink bindi. Desi netizens were all praises for the new launch and some even compared the Barbie to Priyanka Chopra.

Before the first-ever claims could get any traction, Reddit sleuths started their investigation.

Redditors reveal this is not actually the first-ever Diwali Barbie as claimed

2006 Diwali Barbie MTM Match?
byu/DanCasey2001 inBarbie

While many were claiming that this is an amazing step from the retailer in recognising Indian heritage, Redditors were quick to point out that this is not actually the first-ever Diwali Barbie.

Unbeknown to a lot of people, back in 2006 the retailer released a lehenga-clad Diwali Barbie as part of the 'Festivals of the World' collection. The rare special collector's doll was dressed in a sky blue lehenga and half-sleeved choli along with a pink dupatta. The doll also featured traditional accessories that the West seemed to think to go with the lehenga like a maang tikka, bajuband, matching necklace earrings and bangles - aka the full works.

Even though several collectors seemed to think that Barbie was 'gorgeous', there are several others who think this is o poor representation of Indian ethnic wear

Whether this is the first-ever or not, the point is it is a great achievement for Anita Dongre and a happy moment for all Indians. After all don't you agree that we really needed an upgrade from the 'tacky' 2006 version?

The Barbie is priced at Rs 1999 and is a special collector's item which will be available at top toy retailers online and offline.

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