A celebration dedicated to the 150th anniversary of Nikol Aghbalian’s birth, organized by the Hamazkayin Regional Executive Board for Lebanon, took place on December 3, 2025, at the Hagop Der Melkonian Theater.
Sako Yacoubian delivered opening remarks on behalf of the board. He noted that Aghpalian was a renowned teacher, pedagogue, writer, editor, and political figure who had dedicated his entire life to one true calling: serving the Armenian nation. He emphasized that Aghpalian defended the sacred cause of the survival and development of the Armenian language with unbreakable devotion, believing that the rise of a nation begins with language, education, and a united spirit.
Yacoubian stated that Hamazkayin, of which Aghbalian was a founder in 1928, continues its mission today in various communities across the world through his ideas, his spirit, and unconditional devotion. He added that this event is a revival of that spirit which connects us to our roots, our language, our culture, and our historical responsibility.
Yacoubian concluded, "Aghpalian teaches us that culture is never just a book, a stage, or a classroom; culture is a state of mind, living with the pride of being Armenian. Today, here, it is our duty to continue that pride and to carry on that legacy through our work, our devotion, and our unity."
