ROD BLAGOJEVICH PRESENTED WITH GUSLE

VIŠEGRAD, JANUARY 14 /SRNA/ – Darko Lečić, president of the Rade Jamina Gusle Society, presented former Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich with gusle in Višegrad, as a symbol of the spiritual and cultural connection of the Serb people in the homeland and the diaspora.

Lečić presented the gift to Blagojevich last night during the event "Serbian Gathering," at which he was the guest of honor. Blagojevich proudly emphasized his Serbian heritage and strong emotional ties to Višegrad, stressing that each visit to the town further strengthens his sense of belonging to the Serbian people. "It is a pleasure for me to be here for Serbian Christmas and the New Year. Višegrad is a beautiful town, with wonderful people, an elevated church service, and faithful believers. When I think about the history of the Serb people, I think of people who are faithful to their God, the Orthodox faith, their state and their families, as well as people devoted to hard work and freedom. You are an inspiration," said Blagojevich, one of the closest associates of the US president. Lečić recalled the centuries-old importance of the gusle in preserving Serbian history and identity. "The gusle are a book without covers or pages, in which the history of the Serb people is written. It was song that preserved our people in the most difficult times, and therefore this sacred instrument must be preserved and passed on to future generations," Lečić emphasized. Gusle player Velibor Živanović highlighted the importance of the instrument for younger generations. "The gusle mean a great deal to our young people and young gusle players whom we bring together, as well as to vocal groups. They represent the continuation of our tradition. I want this sound to endure and for young people to learn through it who they are and where they come from," Živanović said, extending wishes of health and happiness on the occasion of the Orthodox New Year. Višegrad Mayor Mladen Đurević said that for nearly two decades the "Serbian Gathering" has had the same goal – preserving the spiritual, cultural and national values of the Serb people. "This event preserves our customs, faith, the Cyrillic script, and brings people together in a spirit of unity. Preserving tradition is our obligation to future generations," Đurević said. The gathering, organized to mark the Orthodox New Year, was also attended by Ranko Ristić from the United States, a friend of Višegrad who has nurtured strong ties with the area for many years. As part of the rich cultural and artistic program, male and female vocal groups, gusle players and ethno singers performed, presenting authentic songs and traditional folk creativity to the audience, contributing to the festive atmosphere and spirit of togetherness. At the end of the event, certificates of appreciation were presented to individuals who made a significant contribution to the preservation of Serbian tradition, culture and spiritual heritage.