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Why We Need Representation in Toys: The Case for Diwali Barbie and Beyond

With the recent collaboration between Mattel and Anita Dongre for the launch of Diwali Barbie, we are prompted to ask: how does representation in toys, like this new doll, shape children’s understanding of different identities and culture?

For decades, Barbie has been more than just a doll—she’s been a symbol of imagination, possibility, and empowerment for millions of children around the world. From her early days as a blonde-haired fashionista to her being the global icon representing different cultures, careers, and body types, Barbie has consistently adapted to reflect the world we live in. This month, Mattel has been in the headlines for their latest launch—a Diwali Barbie designed by none other than renowned Indian fashion designer, Anita Dongre. 

And honestly, it’s about time! Diwali Barbie has arrived just when we needed her the most—a doll that not only looks beautiful but also represents the beauty of Indian culture and tradition. Dressed in a Moonlight Bloom outfit that includes a choli top, a floral koti vest, and a lehenga skirt, she looks like she’s ready to walk straight into a celebration. The details in her outfit are carefully thought out. For example, her skirt is embroidered with dahlias, jasmine, and Indian lotus flowers—each of these flowers carries its own special meaning, symbolizing strength and beauty. Even her accessories are spot-on. She’s got bangles and glowing gold earrings that add to her festive look. And to top it all off, her sleek, long wavy hair is styled in a way that feels both traditional and modern. It’s beautiful and exactly what you’d expect from someone wearing Anita Dongre. But what makes this doll so unique? Or any toy who is representing inclusivity for that matter? Let’s take a closer look. 

Let’s talk about why this Barbie is such a big deal. Diwali is one of the biggest festivals in India. This particular Barbie doll is a mix of heritage and modern style, which makes her so relatable to today’s generation. Young people in India especially, love celebrating their roots while staying trendy. That’s what Diwali Barbie does so well—she’s decked out in a traditional Indian outfit but styled in a way that feels fresh and contemporary. 

Growing up, how many of us saw dolls or toys that reflected our own cultures or traditions? Not many. But things are changing, and this Barbie is proof. Barbie has been around for decades, but this is the first time Mattel has partnered with a well-known Indian designer to honor a festival as big as Diwali. Representation is a huge deal, especially for younger generations who want to see themselves and their traditions in the things they love. This Diwali Barbie, in this case, is a symbol of diversity, showing that Indian culture is beautiful and worth celebrating.

Need for Inclusive Toys! 

But why is representation in toys so important and are there other toys doing the same? To answer that, toys are among the first forms of media children are exposed to, and they significantly influence their worldview. When children see themselves reflected in their toys, it validates their identity, makes them feel seen, and instills pride in who they are. For instance, when Mattel introduced its “Barbie Fashionistas” line, which features dolls of different body shapes, skin tones, and hair types, it provided a broader representation of beauty. 

The absence of diverse representation sends a subtle message that only certain appearances or cultures are worth celebrating. This is why Diwali Barbie is such a big deal. The importance of representation can be seen in other toy lines as well. American Girl Dolls often reflect historical and cultural narratives, featuring characters from various ethnic backgrounds, such as Addy Walker, who represents African American history during the Civil War era, and Nanea Mitchell, who showcases Hawaiian culture in the 1940s. The introduction of LEGO’s “Women of NASA” set allowed young girls to learn about significant female figures in science, encouraging aspirations in STEM fields. Toys that represent various abilities also play a crucial role in shaping inclusive attitudes. For instance, Fisher-Price’s “Little People” line includes figures with disabilities, such as a character in a wheelchair and another who is visually impaired, helping children understand and accept differences from an early age. Similarly, the inclusion of dolls like the “Barbie Fashionista” with a prosthetic leg has opened conversations around disability and resilience.

When children see toys that celebrate diversity, they develop empathy and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Ultimately, representation in toys has a greater purpose as it helps kids learn empathy, and recognize that everyone’s story is valuable. In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, the importance of seeing oneself in playthings cannot be overstated.

Also Read: Has Barbie always been a feminist icon who never got appreciated enough? 

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Pop Culture

Pop Culture Recap: Ed Sheeran Sings Punjabi with Arijit Singh, Tom Felton Returns as Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

From global icons trying something new to internet-breaking moments, here’s everything that had people talking this week. 

Netflix and Balaji Telefilms Join Forces for Long-Term Creative Partnership

Netflix has announced a long-term collaboration with Ekta Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms to develop a range of projects across multiple storytelling formats. The partnership aims to bring fresh, culturally rooted content to audiences, with an untitled series already in advanced development. The collaboration will span Balaji Telefilms, Balaji Motion Pictures, and Balaji Telefilms Digital.

NMACC to Host 3-Day ‘India Weekend’ Celebration in New York This September

The Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) is set to bring a slice of India to New York City with a three-day cultural event this September. Taking place from September 12 to 14 at Lincoln Center, the event led by Reliance Foundation chairperson Nita Ambani will celebrate the richness of Indian art, culture, and heritage on a global stage.

Tom Felton Returns as Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Tom Felton, best known for his portrayal of Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter film series, is making a much-anticipated return to the Wizarding World and this time on stage. The actor is set to reprise his role as Malfoy in the Broadway production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, marking his debut on the iconic New York stage.

Set 19 years after the events of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, The Cursed Child follows a new generation of Hogwarts students while revisiting beloved characters from the original saga. Felton’s return as Draco Malfoy offers fans a rare opportunity to see one of the franchise’s most complex characters evolve in a new medium.

Ed Sheeran Sings in Punjabi with Arijit Singh in New Track ‘Sapphire’

Ed Sheeran has taken his love for India a step further by singing in Punjabi for the first time in his new song Sapphire. Teaming up with Arijit Singh, the track blends Sheeran’s signature style with a desi twist.

The video, shot during his India tour, shows Ed exploring local streets, playing football with kids, and visiting iconic spots across the country. There’s also a blink-and-you-miss-it cameo by Shah Rukh Khan that fans loved.

Sydney Sweeney’s Limited-Edition Soap Featuring Her Bathwater Sells Out Within Seconds

In what might be the most unexpected collab of the year, Sydney Sweeney teamed up with Dr. Squatch to launch a quirky new product: a bar of soap made with her actual bathwater. Yes, you read that right.

The soap, cheekily named Sydney’s Bathwater Bliss, dropped online and vanished just as fast, selling out almost instantly. Fans rushed to get their hands on it, causing the website to crash within minutes of launch. The stunt has led to all kinds of reactions online, some amused, some amazed, and plenty of people still trying to figure out if this is peak celebrity culture or just a really clever marketing move.

Enzo Staiola, Beloved Child Star of Bicycle Thieves, Dies at 85

Italian actor Enzo Staiola, best known for his role as the young Bruno in Vittorio De Sica’s classic film Bicycle Thieves, passed away on June 6 at the age of 85.

Bicycle Thieves is widely regarded as a landmark of Italian neo-realist cinema. The film tells the poignant story of a father and son navigating the challenges of post-war society as they search for the father’s stolen bicycle, a vital tool for his livelihood. Enzo Staiola’s performance as Bruno left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide and remains an iconic part of film history.

Also Read: Your Wardrobe Might Be Reflecting a Recession

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Events

The Biggest Moments for Indian Cinema at Cannes 2025 That Had Everyone Talking

The Cannes Film Festival has always been a celebration of global cinema, glamour, and groundbreaking storytelling and this year was no different. Cannes 2025 stood out for its powerful mix of legacy and new voices, and Indian cinema found itself right at the heart of it all. Here’s a look at all the incredible moments that made this year’s festival really unforgettable for Indian cinema and had everyone talking.

Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound Earns Global Applause and a Nine-Minute Ovation

When Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the festival, it received a powerful nine-minute standing ovation, becoming a proud and emotional moment for Indian cinema. Starring Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa, the film tells a touching story of friendship, dignity, and pain, set in the heart of rural North India. Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese, who supported the film as executive producer, praised it as an important work that adds great value to Indian cinema. Director Neeraj Ghaywan was clearly emotional, moved by the strong and warm response from the audience.

Restored Classic Aranyer Din Ratri Celebrated Satyajit Ray’s Timeless Legacy

The Cannes Classics section took audiences on a nostalgic journey with the screening of Satyajit Ray’s Aranyer Din Ratri (1970), now beautifully restored. The film received a warm standing ovation, with legendary actors Sharmila Tagore and Simi Garewal present at the screening. The restoration was made possible by The Film Foundation’s World Cinema Project, with support from the Golden Globe Foundation. Filmmaker Wes Anderson, a longtime admirer of Ray’s work, introduced the film and described it as a timeless exploration of self-discovery and the desire to escape city life. The screening served as a heartfelt tribute to Ray’s enduring legacy in world cinema.

Payal Kapadia Joined the Competition Jury

After gaining attention last year with her Palme d’Or-winning film, Payal Kapadia returned to Cannes in a new role as a member of the main competition jury. Her selection was an important moment for Indian representation at one of the world’s most respected film festivals.

The jury was led by French actress Juliette Binoche and included members like Halle Berry, Leila Slimani, Carlos Reygadas, Alba Rohrwacher, Jeremy Strong, Dieudo Hamadi, and Hong Sangsoo. Payal Kapadia’s participation added to India’s growing presence in international cinema.

Guneet Monga Launches New Scholarship to Support Women Filmmakers

Award-winning producer Guneet Monga introduced a new initiative at Cannes through Women in Film India (WIF India), the Indian branch of the global Women in Film network.

The recently launched Cannes Producers’ Scholarship by Marché du Film is designed to connect mid-career female producers with international business leaders. To support the cause of increasing visibility, mentorship, and opportunities for Indian women in the film industry, producers Rucha Pathak, Rabia Chopra, Tillotama Shome, and Dimpy Agrawal joined Monga during the announcement.

Also Read: Dupatta Labeled as European Aesthetic is a Case of Cultural Erasure

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Business

Pop Culture Recap: Robert De Niro received an honorary Palme d’Or, Gucci unveiled its Cruise 2026 collection in Florence.

From iconic celebrations and creative showcases to innovative product launches and highly anticipated tours, there has been a lot that grabbed people’s attention all around the world. Here’s a brief recap of some of the most talked-about pop culture moments this week.

Robert De Niro Honored at Cannes 2025

At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, which took place from May 13 to May 24, 2025, legendary actor Robert De Niro was given an honorary Palme d’Or during the opening ceremony on May 13, in recognition of his incredible contributions to cinema throughout his life, and the award was presented to him by fellow actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who has worked with him in several films. During his speech, De Niro did not hold back as he criticized U.S. President Donald Trump by calling him “America’s philistine president” and also spoke out against the proposed tariffs on foreign films, saying that such policies are harmful to both art and democracy and should be challenged.

Gucci Cruise 2026: A Return to Where It All Began

On May 15, Gucci presented its Cruise 2026 collection at the historic Palazzo Settimanni in Florence, which holds a special place in the brand’s story because it is where the House’s archive is located and where its journey began back in 1921. The brand’s decision to return to Florence for this collection felt like a full-circle moment, especially now as it enters a new creative phase with Demna Gvasalia taking over as creative director in just a few months.

The setting in Florence, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and strong connection with fashion, was the perfect choice for this show, and even the CEO Stefano Cantino mentioned how deeply Gucci and Florence are connected by saying “Gucci is Florence and Florence is Gucci,” which highlights how much the city has shaped the brand’s identity and vision over the years. The Cruise 2026 collection felt fresh and playful while still keeping the elegance and glamour that Gucci is known for, with materials like leather, velvet, and fur making a strong impression along with long gowns that stood out on the runway, especially one dramatic polka-dot gown that had a sculpted triple bow on one shoulder, which was one of the highlights of the show.

This collection gave a glimpse into what fashion might look like in 2026, with styles that felt soft, quiet, and chic but still left room for bold shapes and silhouettes, as seen in the use of structured cigarette pants, formal-looking skirts, floral and leather bottoms, and the return of the iconic GG belt from the archives. The overall colour palette was subtle and elegant, with shades of khaki and other neutral tones bringing calmness and depth to the collection, which showed that Gucci is moving toward a more refined and thoughtful direction while still celebrating its roots and embracing a modern sense of creativity.

In the end, this Cruise 2026 show was not just about showcasing a new collection but also about revisiting the House’s origins, reconnecting with its history, and stepping into a new chapter with confidence and style.

Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS Unveils Needle-Free Nipple Piercing Collection

In May 2025, Kim Kardashian’s brand SKIMS launched a bold new product that quickly grabbed attention on social media, as the brand introduced needle-free nipple piercings that are designed to look like real piercings without the need for any actual piercing, making it a fun and temporary way for people to try the look without any long-term change. This new drop fits perfectly with SKIMS’ daring and modern style, as the brand continues to push the boundaries of what intimate clothing and accessories can be by mixing fashion with innovation in a way that gets people talking.

BLACKPINK’s 2025 Deadline World Tour

On Friday, May 23, Blackpink gave their fans a glimpse of what’s coming next by dropping a short teaser video for their upcoming stadium tour, which they have officially named the “Deadline World Tour,” and in this dramatic 30-second clip, the word “DEADLINE” slowly rises out of a sparkling pink glitter pool while intense music plays in the background, building excitement around their return to the stage. The teaser comes around three months after the group first revealed that they would be touring again after three years, with concerts planned across North America, Europe, and Asia. The tour will begin in their home city of Seoul and then continue with shows in four major North American cities—Los Angeles, Toronto, Chicago, and New York—scheduled for mid-July, and to wrap up, the group is also set to perform at the Tokyo Dome in Japan in mid-January 2026, making this comeback tour one of the most anticipated events in K-pop.

Also Read: Dupatta Labeled as European Aesthetic is a Case of Cultural Erasure

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