Source

Komitas, Complete works vol. 5, "Soviet writer" publishers, Yerevan, 1979 (arm).

Barekendan (Carnival in western tradition), literally means wellbeing and happiness. It falls on the Saturday preceding major weekly fasts. In villages, Barekendan lasted for two weeks, beginning immediately after the Fast of the Catechumens (Arachavorats) - a preliminary fast of five days, three weeks prior to the Lent. That holiday was celebrated with festive food, singing, and dancing.