Gikor – Translated by Muthumudalige Nissanka
What a great blessing it is to translate a book that many Sri Lankans have never heard of or read. It brings me immense joy to share this beautiful literary treasure with them today.
Ask any Armenian who the greatest author of their country is, and the name Hovhannes Tumanyan will undoubtedly be their answer. His works live in the hearts of every Armenian, just as his image can be found in nearly every city in Armenia.
About Tumanyan
Hovhannes Tumanyan, born on February 19, 1869, in what was then part of the Soviet Union, gained prominence in Armenia through his enchanting fairy tales. There isn’t an Armenian child who doesn’t know them.
Young children discover the beauty of life through literature by reading his delightful stories, which appeal to people of all ages. Tumanyan’s tales are timeless and can be cherished by both young and old alike.
Beyond being a poet, fairy tale writer, and short story author, Hovhannes Tumanyan was also a strong humanitarian.
He was imprisoned twice for his anti-war stance during the Azerbaijan-Armenia conflicts between 1905 and 1907. Sadly, after a long illness, Tumanyan passed away on March 23, 1923.
Armenian literature
The book you are reading, Gikor, is a gem of Armenian literature. Much like how Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is beloved and recited by Europeans during the Christmas season, Gikor is similarly cherished and read aloud during festive occasions in Armenia, particularly among families with children.
Yet, Gikor also carries the sorrow of Armenia within its pages—it is perhaps the saddest story ever written by an Armenian. The deep pain and heartache conveyed in this narrative reflect the harsh realities Armenians faced a hundred years ago.
It stirs feelings of compassion in young readers, teaching them to empathize with others and to share their burdens. I truly believe this book, which captivates Armenians from childhood, fosters a lifelong sense of empathy for the less fortunate.
Reverend Hovhannes Tumanyan is no longer with us, and one day I, too, will no longer be here. However, this beautiful book, Gikor, will live on in your heart, just as a cherished melody or a timeless story remains forever.
In closing, I would like to express my gratitude to the library, to Mr. Dasun Samira Weerasinghe, who undertook the printing of this book, and to Mr. V. Budumyan, the Minister of Armenian Culture, for his kind letter of thanks following my translation of Gikor.
— Muthumudalige Nissanka (Nissh Em)
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