Tbilisi was rejoicing in Vardaton celebration dedicated to Sayat-Nova

Rooted in the beautiful tradition of honoring Sayat-Nova’s art, Vardaton brings together lovers of ashugh music and admirers of Sayat-Nova’s legacy in the multicultural city of Tbilisi. Each year, they gather at the Cathedral of Saint George to lay red roses on the tomb of the great Armenian ashugh — a singer of friendship among peoples — passing on to future generations the reverence for his greatness and the enduring relevance and immortality of his musical and poetic art.

On May 18, 2025, the traditional Vardaton celebration began with the blessing of His Grace Bishop Kirakos Davtyan, Primate of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia, and through the initiative of the “Hovhannes Tumanyan House” Center for Science and Culture. The celebration started at 18 Amaghleba Street — the former apartment of the great Armenian poet Hovhannes Tumanyan. From there, representatives of the Armenian community in Tbilisi and guests took part in a symbolic procession with red roses to the Cathedral of Saint George, reminding the residents of Tbilisi of their native son, Sayat-Nova, the singer of friendship among peoples.

Following the Sunday Divine Liturgy, under the leadership of His Grace Bishop Kirakos Davtyan, Primate of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia, and with the participation of the clergy, a memorial service was held at the tomb of Sayat-Nova, located in the courtyard of the Cathedral of Saint George. The ceremony was attended by the Chairperson of the Tbilisi City Council (Sakrebulo), council members, members of the Parliament of Georgia, diplomats, guests from Armenian-populated regions of Georgia, and from the Republic of Armenia. The Diocesan Primate delivered a speech in honor of the immortal legacy of Sayat-Nova, the renowned singer of Armenian-Georgian friendship.

At the traditional Sayat-Nova Vardaton, which has preserved its 111-year-old customs, charm, and beauty, the immortal ashugh was honored through the celebration of love, friendship, contemplation, and philosophy found in his lyrical legacy, along with the symbolic praise of the rose’s beauty. After speeches by state and public figures in Gorgasali Square, the festive concert segment began, featuring distinguished music and dance ensembles and master solo performers. The Meydan district of Tbilisi was alive with the spirit of Vardaton, dedicated to Sayat-Nova, creating a festive atmosphere that resonated with the city’s diverse and multi-faith population.