A group of pupils from the "Döwletliler Köşgi" (Palace of Orphans) in Ashgabat, accompanied by educational professionals, recently participated in the International Turkic World Children’s Games Festival held in Istanbul. This cultural forum, supported by the Organization of Turkic States, brought together children from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Hungary, and other regions to share their ancestral traditions. The event aimed to foster a sense of brotherhood and cultural identity through the medium of play.

The festival’s grand opening took place at the historic Rami Library, an 18th-century architectural landmark in Istanbul. Turkish educational officials noted that this was the first event of its kind, designed to help younger generations discover their shared historical and spiritual values. Over the course of three days, the venue transformed into a vibrant hub where visitors could watch traditional games, participate in creative performances, and sample various ethnic cuisines from across the Turkic world.

The Turkmen delegation stood out with their dynamic presentation of national childhood games, including "chilik," "ayterek-gunterek," "bashdash," and traditional games played with knucklebones (ashyk). Turkmen educators shared insightful details regarding the rules and historical significance of these activities, highlighting how traditional games contribute to the physical and social development of a balanced personality. The display was further enhanced by artistic musical performances expertly delivered by the children.

The presence of a traditional Turkmen white yurt served as a focal point for the duration of the event, attracting numerous visitors interested in the country's heritage. For the children of "Döwletliler Köşgi"—an institution dedicated to the care of children under state guardianship—this festival provided an invaluable opportunity for international cultural exchange. The event successfully showcased the enduring relevance of traditional folklore in the modern world.