Georgia is life,
emotions,
bonds.
Georgia embraces you with an open heart.
GEORGIA WILL BRING YOU BACK TO THE FEELING OF HAPPY SERENITY, THE SMELL OF HOT SUMMER MAGNOLIA AND THE TASTE OF CHILDHOOD.
Trepidly wrapping the tulips in an old newspaper, the grandfather, who sells flowers at the intersection, says in a hushed voice: “Daughter, remember my Nana since she planted and loved these tulips so dearly. Allow them to bring you joy as well”.
You can’t stay cold and aloof around here. Even if you are unable to converse with the locals, the chimes of bells in ancient temples, the cries of children in Tbilisi courtyards, the Georgian way of life, and our cuisine will melt the hearts of even the most reserved.
This is how we define Georgia. Stories in all genres and moods, joyful, heartly, at times bittersweet, such as Rezo Gabriadze’s puppet performances and films by the dearly beloved Danelia.
Georgian stories are told in our language that is as colorful as a kaleidoscope.
Truth is encoded in beautiful letters and chants.
We pray to God by singing, “YOU ARE THE VINE” (SHEN KHAR VENAKHI). The vine symbolizes our heritage and philosophy. In Georgia, you can find the vines growing on just about anything, including the balconies, gardens, and the frontyards of homes and churches. Georgia’s Saint Nino, an enlightener, arrived here in the fourth century carrying a cross fashioned from two vine branches.
Let me draw your attention the Georgian term for freedom – Tavisupleba, which signifies the notion of being a God to oneself. This sheds more light as to how this freedom-loving nation carried its faith, language and statehood through the toughest centuries.
It is interesting to think how Georgians refer to an expectant mother – Orsuli, which means a person with two souls.
Let’s look at how Georgians define LIFE – a minute in this world (TSUTISOPELI), which refers to the brevity of time. Merab Mamardashvili, renowned as the “Georgian Socrates,” asserted that Georgians are born with the ability to experience “illicit delight of life.” We love life immensely, and vice versa!
