CHENNAI: The grand ballroom of the Taj Club House was bathed in soft, elegant lighting, casting a warm glow on the gathering of distinguished guests. Attendees, dressed in formal attire, filled the room, seated around tables draped in crisp white linens adorned with decor. The gentle hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses set the tone for a night of celebration and reflection.
On Saturday, the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Armenia in Chennai, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in India, hosted a splendid celebration of Armenia’s 33rd National Day. This year’s festivities carried special significance as they coincided with the 100th birth anniversary of Charles Aznavour, the legendary singer whose music had long bridged cultures and touched hearts worldwide.
Emphasising the importance of the event, Shivkumar Eashwaran, the honorary Consul General of Armenia in Chennai, said, “We’ve invited a very well-known Armenian group from England, whose performances are highly acclaimed across Europe. Their presence has garnered interest from international cultural representatives, including those from France and Germany.”
He also highlighted the growing diplomatic and cultural ties between India and Armenia, sharing, “India and Armenia’s relationship has evolved significantly, particularly with dialogues facilitated by Indian think tanks. We’re hoping to take these ties to the next level.” The evening unfolded with an exquisite concert by the Klingen Choir and Cultural Association, featuring world-class Armenian musicians. The group, known for their melodious harmonies and exciting performances, brought the rich musical traditions of Armenia to life in Chennai.
The concert blended classical Armenian compositions with timeless pieces from Charles’s repertoire. The audience was captivated by performances such as A Khachaturian’s Waltz from Masquerade Suite, Ch. Aznavour’s Tous les visages de l’amour (She), and L Saryan’s I can’t forget you. These were performed by the ensemble of talented musicians, including Sipan Olah (Conductor, Tenor, Pianist), Nikita Demidenko (Piano), Polina Sharafyan (Violin), Hagop Jack Mouradian (Oboe), and Hayarpi Yeghikyan (Soprano). The emotional depth of Aznavour’s songs, including La Bohme and Une vie d’amour, reminded the audience of his enduring legacy.
One of the standout moments was the performance of Pour toi Arménie, where the fusion of Hayarpi Yeghikyan’s soprano and Sipan Olah’s tenor left the room spellbound, embodying the strength and resilience of the Armenian people.
Charles Aznavour, born in 1924 in Paris to Armenian immigrant parents, left a lasting legacy not only through his music but also through his humanitarian efforts. Shivkumar remarked, “Aznavour was a beacon of hope for Armenians around the world, a passionate advocate for Armenian causes, and an artist whose work transcended borders and languages.”
As the evening’s final notes were played, the celebration reminded everyone in attendance of the strong cultural ties between Armenia and India, symbolised by the collaboration between the Armenian Consulate in Chennai and local cultural institutions. Shivkumar’s remarks encapsulated the essence of the event: “We come together to honour Armenia’s rich cultural heritage, to celebrate the life and legacy of Charles Aznavour, and to strengthen the bonds of friendship between Armenia and India.”