Akaki Tsereteli

Georgian poet and national leader who revitalized Georgian language and culture under Russian imperialism

Akaki Tsereteli (1840–1915) was a Georgian writer and activist whose works revived national identity during the Russian Empire's domination. Known as the Father of Georgian Poetry, he co-founded the Tergdaleulebi movement, promoting Georgian language education and opposing Russification.

His poem სულიკო (Suliko) became a cultural anthem, while plays like თოჯინის გული (The Doll's Heart) satirized colonial bureaucracy. Tsereteli also championed peasant rights, demanding land reforms. Today, his statue in Tbilisi symbolizes Georgia's cultural resilience, and his birthday is observed as Akaki Day, celebrating linguistic heritage.