What can an ‘autistic’ Barbie represent when neurodivergence has no single look?

In Focus by The Hindu · Jan 21, 2026 · 37m

There's a new Barbie in town. She avoids direct eye contact, makes repetitive physical movements in social settings, and her pretty purple dress is comfortable and free from irritating seams. Her pink headphones -- they're more than just a fashion statement.

Mattel, the multinational toy company, has launched an ‘autistic’ Barbie as part of its range of “inclusive” dolls. It has partnered with the U.S.-based Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) to create an intentional set of features that aim to reflect experiences typically invisible in mainstream toy aisles.

In today's episode, we go…