Armenian National Dish Dolma Honored in Tbilisi

In Georgia, it has become a cherished tradition to present the richness of Armenian cuisine as an integral part of Armenian cultural heritage. On July 13, 2025, Armenian dolma was honored at the Cathedral of Saint George in Tbilisi. With the blessing and support of His Grace Bishop Kirakos Davtyan, Primate of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia, the “Shushanik” Union of Armenian Women in Georgia (President: Susanna Khachatryan) organized the Dolma Festival for the 15th consecutive year. The event brought together Armenians from Tbilisi, other regions of Georgia, and Armenia.

The courtyard of the Armenian church was filled with people. Following the Sunday Divine Liturgy, the faithful were welcomed with more than 30 tables adorned with a variety of fragrant Armenian dolmas. The Diocesan Primate emphasized and expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Armenian women of Georgia, highlighting their commitment to preserving national values and traditions and passing them on to future generations.

After the blessing of the tables by the Diocesan Primate, the tasting of the fragrant dolma took place to the accompaniment of the “Hayartun” Center’s (director: Eugenia Markosyan) folk instrument ensemble (Conductor: Ivane Mkrtchyan). The event was further enriched by soulful performances of traditional Armenian songs by soloists Aida Bazoyan-Surmalyan, Arman Papikyan, and Alex Akopyan, as well as the harmonious presence of Armenian dance and round dance (shurjpar).

The “Shushanik” Union of Armenian Women in Georgia extends its gratitude to the Diocesan Primate, His Grace Bishop Kirakos Davtyan, for supporting the organization of the Dolma Festival. Appreciation is also expressed to Karen Yeritsyan, Head of the Administrative Department; to the cross-bearers of Tbilisi’s two churches, Arkadi Hovakimyan and Karen Darbinyan; to amateur chef Davit Babayan, who arrived from Armenia; and to all participants. Beautiful commemorative gifts for the dolma makers were sent by the devout church supporter Marine Sumakhyan, who now resides in Moscow.

The Dolma Festival left an unforgettable impression and a festive spirit in the memory of the Armenians of Tbilisi.