Presentation of Book “Clean Hands or Chess” by Moushegh Chaloyan-Martirosyan


    On June 2, 2015, in the framework of the programs devoted to the 70th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War the presentation of the book “Clean Hands or Chess” by French-Armenian benefactor, veteran of Great Patriotic War Moushegh Chaloyan-Martirosyan took place at the YCCL. “This book is about courage and generosity, as well as about hope in a man, who goes through terrible times”. The presentation of French editor, good friend of Armenia Gerard Bony's book started by the screening of the movie devoted to Moushegh Chaloyan- Martirosyan. The host of the event actress Gayane' Samvelyan and reciter Sergush Babayan acquainted the audience with the biography of the writer and read some parts from the book. “Moushegh Chaloyan-Martirosyan was born on October 5, 1923, in village Khndzoresk. After graduating from school in 1941, he went to Baku to continue his education. He had his share at the Great Patriotic War, but soon was captivated and was send to Poland”. The actress also told the audience that the author's knowledge of playing chess had saved his life and helped his to get to France. She informed that in 1946 he became the student of old carpet's collectоr Gevorg Bakerchian, who taught him the symbols of different handmade carpets from around the world, the language of colors and secrets of their combination. The result was that Mr. Chaloyan fell in love with this craft. His contribution to the Armenian culture was presented by Honorary Worker of Art of Armenian Republic Shahen Khachatryan and National Artist of Armenian Republic Paravon Mirzoyan. Author's daughter-in- law Janin Chaloyan, who was the first to start editing the manuscrips and later turnong it into a book, told the guests about how was the book made. She said: “When editing this book, I was creating his image of a young man in my mind, I was traveling through time to discover Armenia of his age with its traditions and troubles… I've highlighted his great will to stay alive and the interference of providence on this way. ” Moushegh Chaloyan's persona and his honorable deeds were praised by his friends Seda Ananyan, director Juliet Kadjoyan, Candidate of Historical Sciences, carpet specialist Ashkhunj Poghosian, Doctor of Philological Sciences, translator Henrik Bakhchinyan, National Artist of Armenian Republic, the head of “Sayat-Nova” cultural association Tovmas Poghosian and the head of the YCCL, Honorary Worker of Culture Hasmik Karapetian. The guests of the event had opportunity to listen to Soloist of the National Opera and Ballet Theatre, international song competition winner Lilit Soghomonyan and the students of “Jivani” folk song school.

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