On October 19, 2018, at the "House of Hovhannes Tumanyan" Center for Science and Culture of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia, memorial evening took place dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the famous Armenian poet, translator, author of several collections of poems late Michael Akhtyan of blessed memory.
The event was initiated by Emma Akhtyan, the Head of the "Armenian Center for Scientific Research in Georgia" nongovernmental organization (NGO). The collections of poems of Michael Akhtyan were presented at the hall.
The writer colleagues of the poet, admirers of his poetic art, Tbilisi-Armenian intellectuals were in the hall.
"The "House of Hovhannes Tumanyan" which is operating under the auspices of the Armenian Church, staying true to its mission once again opened the doors to accept intellectuals, devotees of art and literature to celebrate the 80th anniversary of poet Michael Akhtyan, unfortunately, without him", said the Head of the Center Gisane Hovsepyan in her opening remarks.
The speaker Emma Akhtyan presented the literary path of the poet, from the first poem published in the "Vrastan" ("Georgia") Newsletter to the collection of poems published after his death.
Like many of our great writers, Michael Akhtyan also came from the village and brought purity of village and continued to be the son of a his native village who was concerned with the faith of villagers and his homeland – here are the traits with which the poet Michael Akhtyan will continue to live in the hearts and memories of his readers. The poet and translator Givi Shahnazar, artistic director of Tbilisi State Drama theatre after Petros Adamyan Armen Bayanduryan, prose writer Rafael Hrachyan, famous actor Robert Hovhannisyan in their speeches told about Michael Akhtyan’s live and activity, described him as a good men, devoted friend and parent.
Poetess Lusine Vanoyan, Michael Ananov, his daughter Marianna recited Akhtyan poems, presenting his poetry, which became a testimony to the generosity of his literary heritage – lyrical, patriotic, humanitarian spirit, beauty of nature, endless love for Motherland and the victory of justice are presented in his poems.
Michael Akhtyan was also a great supporter of the people's friendship. The works of Georgian poets translated into Armenian by Michael Akhtyan were also presented. Gohar Mazmanyan read the memories of Armenian and Georgian poets and writers about M. Akhtyan.
The event was concluded by Rev. Father Tatev Marukyan who conveyed the blessings of the Primate of the Armenian Diocese in Georgia. Summing up the evening, the latter mentioned that Tumanyan's home with hosting various cultural events became such a center for Armenians in Georgia, where the Armenian spiritual life is going on.
The poet's son, Beglar Akhtyan expressed gratitude on behalf of the Akhtyan's family.