From Kota to Delhi: Are Labubu Rakhis 2025’s most unexpected trend?

Move over traditional rakhis, 2025’s Raksha Bandhan is being taken over by a wide-eyed, slightly scruffy monster with a cult following: Labubu. This ‘creepy’ doll has taken the world by storm. Labubu has leapfrogged from niche toy-collector shelves and artsy Instagram reels straight into India’s most emotional, thread-tying festival – Raksha Bandhan.

Labubu Rakhis are the new IT thing

What started as a TikTok and Instagram trend has now exploded across India. According to a Times of India report, purple Labubu rakhis and lumbas (the sister-equivalent version) are flying off shelves.

And it's not just metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai on the list. Even small towns like Kota have registered a demand for Labubu Rakhis.

From soft plush miniatures to clay-crafted Labubus with googly eyes and glitter teeth, the options are endless. And it’s not just for kids or Gen Z. Millennials, artists, and even small-town teenagers are gifting these rakhis to brothers and sisters alike.

Gender-less and trending rakhis

Labubu is genderless enough to be gifted to sisters, cousins, or even close friends. The monster has become a symbol of chaotic love and sibling energy. The labubu rakhi industry has also helped independent artists. From handmade felt versions to 3D-printed designs and glitter-infused lumbas, there’s a whole cottage industry blooming around this trend.

Nidhi Gupta, founder of an online brand, revealed to TOI how sales for Labubu rakhis have gone up. She said, “Labubu is all of us on a bad hair day, chaotic, moody, but still cute. It’s weirdly adorable, and that’s what makes it a hit. I was a little apprehensive when launching these, but surprisingly, people loved them. Be it the Labubu rakhis or gift earrings, orders are flowing in for both. In terms of orders, Delhi and Mumbai are leading the way, and honestly, I’m not surprised.”

This isn’t just a one-week wonder. Labubu’s appeal lies in its meme-like absurdity and cross-cultural charm. Already, there are whispers of Labubu-themed Diwali décor, Christmas ornaments, and even wedding favors.

Whether it’s nostalgia, a love for pop culture, or just the thrill of standing out, Labubu has made a monstrous entry into India’s festival scene.