Kolašin begins marking 20 years of Montenegro's independence

The concert of the "Đude" singing group in Kolašin last night marked the beginning of the celebration of 20 years since the restoration of Montenegro's independence. The youth of this female singing group opened the program with a performance, in which girls of primary and secondary school age revived old Montenegrin songs and the spirit of the past.

During the evening, 14 traditional songs were performed, and the young performers successfully performed the demanding repertoire.

The audience was guided through the program by mediator Davor Sedlarević, who explained the origin of the songs, their transmission through generations, and the diversity of singing styles in Montenegro. Particular attention was drawn to the segment dedicated to wedding songs, which were once an indispensable part of family celebrations.

"In the past, there were no paid musicians like there are today, but girls, called 'pjevalice' or 'cikotuše' (because they chirp with their voices), sang individually for each wedding official, starting from the oldest wedding guest to the best man. Then the joy continued with the singing of all the other wedding guests and wedding guests," explained Sedlarević.

According to him, "this is why there is the largest number of recorded wedding songs in literature."

Already in the first songs, the young women of Kolašin presented several different "kajdi" (tunes), thus demonstrating the richness and diversity of Montenegrin musical heritage. Later, the concert brought a fun atmosphere, reminiscent of the old dances, songs and gatherings that brought people together. In this spirit, Sedlarević congratulated the upcoming anniversary, saying that "song is here to connect and unite us."

"With youth, unity and the voices of new generations, the celebration of two decades since the restoration of Montenegro's independence began last night in Kolašin. The concert once again showed how important it is to include the youngest generations in nurturing traditional songs, but also how much youth can strongly contribute to the values ​​of unity and cultural identity. The audience from several Montenegrin cities rewarded each song with long applause, and certain moments even caused standing ovations," said the organizers.

The younger members of the group are: Helena Vuković, Milica Popović, Jana Raketić, Olga Anđelić, Jelena Medenica, Maša Medenica, Anđela Rakočević and Dunja Popović.

The rich program marking two decades since the restoration of Montenegrin statehood in Kolašin is coordinated by a Commission composed of representatives of the government and opposition, as well as representatives of institutions and companies.

The festivities will continue with an exhibition of caricatures by Darko Drljević, which will open on May 18th at the Cultural Center. The promotion of the book about Dragan Kujović will be held on May 20th.

Video: Private archive

The central ceremony and cocktail will be held at the Soldiers' Square on May 21st at 10 a.m. During the day, a mixed choir, violinist Jan, and participants in the children's program will perform.

The ceremonial academy will begin at 19 p.m., after which DJ Mirko Lucin, the Šendon band and Hari Mata Hari will perform on the town square.

The anniversary celebration will conclude with a full-day program on May 22nd, when activities for children, an exhibition of women painters, as well as performances by DJ Mirko Lucin and the band Perper and Rudolf are planned.