“Vardaton” at Haghpat Monastery

“Vardaton” at Haghpat Monastery

“Sayat-Nova, the lamplighter of Haghpat, is mine,
I have no oil to light even one lamp.”

On July 26, Haghpat Monastery, an eloquent yet silent witness to the history and pride of the Armenian people, became the setting for a celebration of spiritual unity. The event was organized by the “Ընտանիք” Children and Youth Creative Center of Gyumri as part of the “Let Us Build Our Future Together” Summer School program.

The monastery complex hosted “Vardaton,” a celebration dedicated to the 300th anniversary of Sayat-Nova, a pioneer of Armenian ashugh (troubadour) music. The event was attended by teenagers from Artsakh, Javakhk, and different regions of Armenia, as well as a group of young people who had arrived from France. A large number of tourists and local residents also spontaneously joined the celebration.

The purpose of the jubilee event was to introduce teenagers to medieval literature and the art of the ashugh, help them discover and appreciate the roots of Armenian folk song, acquaint the younger generation with the unique art of Sayat-Nova, and foster communication and unity among the participants.

Just as centuries ago, beneath the magnificent arches of the Georgian royal court, Sayat-Nova’s strings of love resounded, so too did the strings of his lyre echo today in this spiritual cradle. The songs and verses of the beloved nightingale soared into the air, captivating the audience.

The emotional performance of “Qani Vor Janim” (“As Long as I Live”) by the young people from France, together with the colorful dance performances, once again proved that time is powerless against such geniuses: their radiant lamp remains forever unextinguished.

The fragrant celebration of brotherhood and roses continued in the courtyard of Haghpat Monastery. Vardaton became an expression of homage to the great Sayat-Nova and the songs and music he created, a tribute of profound reverence to the rich legacy he left behind, and a bow before his extraordinary talent.

The event was also covered by “Ankyun Gumarats 3” television channel, which broadcasts in the city of Alaverdi.

Murad Torosyan