Armenian Feminist Voices: The Contributions of Srpouhi Dussap, Hayganush Mark, Marie Beyleryan, and Zaruhi Kalemkaryan
Srpouhi Dussap (1840–1901) stands as a pioneering figure in Armenian literature, not only for her literary contributions but also for her role in championing the cause of women’s rights and education. Born in Constantinople in the Ortakoy district, she was the daughter of a prosperous upper-class Armenian Catholic family. Her upbringing in a family that imitated the Western European lifestyle, especially French culture, initially distanced her from her own Armenian heritage. However, after receiving tutelage from the Armenian poet Mkrtich Beshiktashlian, she developed a profound love for the Armenian language and literature. This shift in her perspective marked the beginning
The Armenian Parkapzuk Bagpipe: Tradition and Sound in a Timeless Instrument
The Armenian Parkapzuk (Պարկապզուկ), a variant of the bagpipe, boasts a rich and ancient history, with its origins tracing back to around 1300 BC in the territory of Western Armenia. This wind instrument, deeply ingrained in Armenian musical heritage, consists of a bag, traditionally crafted from animal skin, which functions as a reservoir for air. The musician fills the bag by blowing air directly into it, and once inflated, the air is directed through two wooden pipes known as chanters. Each chanter is equipped with five or six finger holes, which the musician manipulates similarly to a flute, adjusting the
Embracing Traditions: The Armenian Diaspora Joins Chinese New Year Celebrations in Spain
The Chinese New Year, rooted in the lunar calendar, is one of the most eagerly awaited holidays worldwide. Each year, this festival aligns with a specific zodiac sign, reflecting the cyclical nature of time. In 2025, the spotlight falls on the Wooden Green Snake, a symbol of ancestral wisdom and tranquility. Alongside the traditional festivities, the celebration also incorporates customs believed to bring prosperity and success.While primarily celebrated in China, the Chinese New Year has gained global significance, with numerous countries joining in the festivities—including Spain. This year, for the first time, the Armenian community in Barcelona will take part
Armenian Culture on Display: A Vibrant Showcase in Tianjin, China
In mid-December 2024, at the Tianjin Montessori Kindergarten, Armenian teacher Arevik organized a vibrant event celebrating Armenian culture, cuisine, customs, visual arts, and traditional attire.The children were introduced to the rich tapestry of Armenian traditions, including the significance of family in the Armenian worldview and the symbolic importance of Mount Ararat for Armenians worldwide. Leading up to the event, the children had the unique opportunity to learn how to make "lavash," Armenia's traditional flatbread. During the event, they eagerly shared their impressions of the activity and the knowledge they had gained.The highlight of the celebration was the children's heartfelt rendition
Armenian Student Among Nanjing University Team Securing Top Prize in Shanghai
From November 28 to December 1, 2024, Shanghai hosted the 7th "Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press Cup" National Intercultural Competence Competition, an event that brought together some of the brightest university students across China. Among the competitors was Armenian student Arevik Margaryan, whose exceptional performance played a pivotal role in securing the first-place victory for Nanjing University.Arevik's participation was a highlight of the competition, symbolizing not only her personal dedication but also the growing influence of Armenian students excelling abroad. As a member of a diverse team alongside Alexej Apelganz from Germany and Jacob Taylor Cottle from the United
