On June 8, 2025, the Armenian Community Centre in Cambridge hosted a literary evening dedicated to the great poet Daniel Varoujan (1884–1915).
On the invitation of the Hamazkayin Cambridge Chapter, the Hamazkayin Toronto Book Lovers’ Group made their third annual visit to the chapter. The group has been operating since 2012 under the tireless guidance of Tamar Donabedian.
The emcee was Rita Arikian, who welcomed everyone on behalf of the chapter. Comrades Gabriella Batigian, Hayg Harutyunian, Nareg Karamardian, Mosig Danadian, Shant Deokmejian, and Alik Baboghlian had roles. Razmig Garbushian from the Cambridge Chapter made his debut. Minelli Shahnazarian on piano accompanied the comrades reciting poetry. Overall, 14 poem’s from Varujan’s books, Sarsurner, Tseghin Sirde, Hetanos Yerker, and Hatsin Yerke were read, along with some of his letters.
Participants enjoyed the presentation and appreciated the efforts of the young performers. The performers were given books as mementos. Ms. Donabedian, who also represents the Hamazkayin Central Executive Board in Canada, said a few words. She said cultural and educational programming is important and mutual understanding between parents and the organization is really important.
At the end of the program the pastor of Sourp Nishan Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church, the aptly named Rev. Fr. Nishan Manougian, praised the efforts and the presentation and said a parting prayer.
Rita Arikian
