First ever 'Diwali Barbie' doll released ahead of festival

Diwali Barbie has been released to celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights

A new Barbie will help celebrate the largest Indian festival of the year... say hello to Diwali Barbie, the latest doll from Mattel.

Barbie's parent company Mattel released the new doll to celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights, which will take place this year from 31 October to 1 November.

Diwali Barbie has been made in collaboration with Indian designer Anita Dongre, and will feature traditional Indian elements, including a cropped top, or choli; a floral vest known as a koti; and a patterned, ankle-length skirt called a lehenga.

“In celebration of Diwali, Barbie and I are both encouraging fans around the world to celebrate the beautiful heritage of Indian fashion and culture,” said Anita.

The doll incorporates traditional Indian items of clothing and accessories

The skirt - or lehenga - has flowers on it such as dahlias, jasmine and Indian lotus, which represent strength and beauty.

Diwali Barbie also wears gold bangles and earrings, which Anita says “[reflect] the radiant lights of the festival".

Anita said she wanted to include “modern aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship".

The doll joins a line of Festival of the World Barbies, including Cinco de Mayo and Chinese New Year.

What is Diwali?

Diwali - the Hindu festival of light takes place over five days and falls on a different day each year.

The festival is celebrated by millions of Hindu, Jains and Sikhs across the world and each religion marks different historical events and stories.

It spreads the message of the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.