WASHINGTON, 20 December — What’s the hottest gift for Muslim girls this year in the US market? One of the favorites was on display at this weekend’s Eid celebration at the Capital Expo Center near Washington. "Razanne, the Muslim Doll," caught many an eye, and the fancy of many young girls. "Razanne" is created by Noor Art, which is headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan. The doll has recently been introduced to the market, according to Ammar Saadeh, who flew in from Michigan for the Eid event in Washington.
Razanne’s creators say their doll is an alternative for Muslim girls. They don’t want her to be a Barbie doll dressed in Muslim clothes.
"We are not here to mimic the Barbie - not at all," said Saadeh, business manager for Noor Art. "We are here to introduce something unique."
Razanne, whose name means "modest" in Arabic, is 12 inches tall and available in three skin and hair colors: brown, tan or white skin, with blonde, brown or black hair. Razanne has quite an impressive wardrobe. She currently has five outfits: there is the "Schoolgirl Razanne," with books and backpack; "Teacher Razanne" comes with a laptop, cell phone, glasses and sunglasses and a briefcase; "Prayer Razanne" wears a white veil and gown, and offers two color choices for a prayer rug — either green or burgundy. "In and Out Razanne," has a choice of two outfits: for home, and going out; and there is also a "Fun-Time Razanne" offering a ‘shalwar kameez’ in neon colors of orange, red or pink.
All of the outfits — with the exception of the indoor wear — include the traditional Muslim head covering, the hijab, which is removable.
"Many parents oppose the Barbie doll because of the way she dresses," said Saadeh. "Razanne is a very good alternative for those families."
Saadeh said Noor Art produced education products for Muslim children. "We try to offer things that can help Muslim children keep and understand their identity as a Muslim and be proud of it."
He said the company often received thank-you notes from customers. "The people who buy it are happy with the fact that there is an alternative for kids that fits their culture and beliefs," said Saadeh.
Non-Muslims are buying Razanne too, Saadeh said. "Many customers call us who are doll collectors and are excited to have a real Muslim doll to add to their collection."
The dolls range is price from $15 to $25, and includes a coloring book. All of Noor Art’s choices — which incorporate a wide choice of toys, from magnetic Arabic letters and numbers boards, to a broad selection of Muslim tapes, software, books and videos for children — are available online from the website at: www.noorart.com.
Barbie, move over.
