Exclusive roly-poly toys to be presented by the Department Store RUSSIA at "INNOPROM. Central Asia"

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The roly-poly toy (nevalyashka) is not only a well-known children’s toy from the Soviet past, but also one of the most recognisable cultural symbols of the country — a vivid example of resilience and optimism. It was the roly-poly that became the informal symbol of the National Centre RUSSIA during the New Year holidays. Now the iconic toy is setting off on an international journey: a special collection of roly-poly toys will be presented at the Department Store RUSSIA stand at the trade fair "INNOPROM. Central Asia" in Uzbekistan.

Created exclusively for the exposition, the Tambov-based factory "Kotovskiye Nevalyashki" has produced a series in which the traditional silhouette of the Russian roly-poly is combined with designs inspired by Uzbek national costume. Colours, ornaments and textile motifs form the basis of the design. The toy itself becomes a symbol of dialogue between two cultures, a link between generations, and respect for the traditions of Russia and Uzbekistan.

The roly-poly has long gone beyond the idea of a simple souvenir. Its weighted base and ability to return upright every time have made it a symbol of resilience and faith in the future. Its smile and bright appearance are associated with optimism and vitality. In Soviet times, it was often seen as an image of an unbreakable character and the will to win; today, in psychology and education, it is used as a visual symbol of inner balance and as a tool for developing motor skills in young children. In contemporary interpretations, the toy also represents family values and continuity between generations. The roly-poly with Uzbek ornaments will become a visual highlight of the Department Store RUSSIA stand, reminding visitors that resilience and goodwill are values understood in any country.

The roly-poly collection forms part of the large exposition of the Department Store of the National Centre RUSSIA at "INNOPROM. Central Asia", dedicated to the image of merchant culture as a blend of traditions and peoples. Decorative elements of the stand — a "house" with a tiled roof, shutters, regional patterns, beads and natural materials — will highlight the richness and cultural heritage of Russia’s regions. Ornaments and decorative compositions will visually demonstrate the shared cultural space of Russia and Uzbekistan. Within this setting, the roly-poly with Uzbek patterns becomes a natural part of the overall concept — an image of a welcoming merchant estate where different traditions meet.

The stand will feature products from 57 manufacturers representing 39 regions of Russia, selected across six categories: "Delicacies", "Accessories", "Folk arts and crafts", "Cosmetics", "Tableware", as well as a special collection featuring the symbols of the National Centre RUSSIA and quotations from the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin. This selection will create a space filled with history, meaning and impressions.

Visitors to "INNOPROM. Central Asia" will be able to explore products from Russian brands, see how traditional crafts combine with modern technologies, meet the Department Store team and discuss cooperation opportunities. A programme of live demonstrations is also planned. Craftspeople from the Orenburg Region will show the shaping of items made from Orenburg down shawls, artists from the Kirov Region will demonstrate the painting of Dymkovo toys, and artisans from the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area — Yugra will present the making of fur ornamented bags and leatherwork.

These live demonstrations will serve as a reminder that even in an age of industrialisation and high technology, manual skill and craftsmanship remain fundamental values. The roly-poly with Uzbek ornaments will naturally continue the narrative of the exposition: a familiar childhood image reinterpreted in a new cultural context, becoming a symbol of resilience, friendship and open dialogue between Russia and Uzbekistan.