On the evening of 19th September 2024, the vibrant spirit of Armenia came alive at a reception hosted by the Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to India, His Excellency Mr. Vahagn Afyan, and his wife Mrs. Lusine Afyan. Held at the Grand Hotel in New Delhi, this occasion celebrated not only the 33rd National Day of the Republic of Armenia but also marked the 100th anniversary of one of Armenia’s most iconic cultural figures—Charles Aznavour.
The event was a magnificent tribute to Armenia’s national identity, its enduring cultural heritage, and the indelible global legacy of Aznavour, the legendary French-Armenian singer and songwriter. The evening featured an enthralling concert performed by the Klingen Choir and Cultural Association, showcasing a stellar lineup of performers that paid homage to the rich musical traditions of Armenia.
The concert was graced by exceptional performances from a roster of talented Armenian and international artists, creating an unforgettable musical evening. Artists such as Sipan Olah, Hagop JackMouradian, Hayarpi Yeghikyan, Polina Sharafyan, Nikita Demidenko, Vachagan Tadevasyan, and Somnath Makhal took to the stage and captivated the audience with their instruments and voice. The concert programme included renditions of works by great Armenian composers like Babajanian, Komitas, and Khachaturian, each performance evoking the unique emotional depth and beauty of Armenian music.
Of particular note were the Aznavour tributes, where some of his most beloved songs were brought to life by these incredible artists. The emotional performances of songs like La Bohème and She were deeply moving, reminding the audience of Aznavour’s ability to capture the human experience with poignancy and sincerity.
The enthusiastic audience, consisting of diplomats, industry leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and music lovers, was clearly spellbound by the evening’s performances. The artists delivered each song with passion and mastery, leaving the listeners hungry for more.
Adding to the grandeur of the event, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, Minister of State for External Affairs, was the Chief Guest for the evening. In his speech, he acknowledged the deepening bonds between Bharat and Armenia, highlighting the importance of cultural exchanges and diplomatic ties in strengthening the relationship between the two nations.
His Excellency Mr. Vahagn Afyan spoke passionately about Armenia’s journey as an independent nation, emphasising its progress, its contributions to global peace and stability, and its unwavering commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. He also expressed gratitude to India for its friendship and cooperation, stressing the importance of continued collaboration in the areas of trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange.
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