Imagine stepping into a time machine that whisks you back to your childhood, surrounded by toys that spark memories you thought were long forgotten. That’s exactly what Tehran’s Toy Museum does—and it’s not just for kids. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the museum was initially envisioned as a haven for children and teens, it’s now drawing in adults just as eagerly, leaving many to wonder if nostalgia knows an age limit. Opened last year after six years of meticulous renovations, this treasure trove is the brainchild of 46-year-old Azadeh Bayat, a researcher in children’s education. With over 2,000 toys from around the globe, Bayat’s collection isn’t just about play—it’s a bridge between generations. ‘Children learn to connect their world with that of their parents and grandparents by discovering the toys they once cherished,’ she explains. But this isn’t your typical toy display. From a solitary clay animal figurine from ancient Persia encased in glass to a row of Russian ‘matryoshka’ dolls in traditional dress, the museum is a global journey through time. And this is the part most people miss: nestled among the exhibits is an Atari console from the 1980s, a relic of early video gaming, and American Barbie dolls—once heavily restricted in Iran as symbols of Western influence. Their presence raises a bold question: Can toys ever truly be apolitical? The controversy doesn’t end there. In response to Barbie’s popularity, Iranian authorities introduced ‘Sara and Dara’ dolls in the early 2000s, modestly dressed figures meant to counter Western ideals. ‘Their faces were everywhere—on books, notebooks, you name it,’ recalls Maedeh Mirzaei, a 27-year-old museum visitor, her voice tinged with nostalgia. Meanwhile, across the room, a museum worker captivates schoolchildren with ‘Ali Varjeh,’ a wooden acrobat puppet whose movements come alive with a simple pull of a string. The museum’s recent event featuring the Belgian character Tintin and shadow puppetry shows proves it’s more than a static display—it’s a living, breathing experience. For 31-year-old Mehdi Fathi, a fitness instructor, the museum is a trip down memory lane. ‘Kids today might think our toys were silly or primitive, but they helped shape who we are,’ he reflects. So, here’s the question: Are toys mere playthings, or are they powerful tools of cultural exchange, education, and identity? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—do you think toys can transcend time and politics, or are they forever tied to the eras they come from?
