Croatian cultural and artistic society "Široka Kula" participated again this year in the Slunj evening of bećarac, which has been held for the eleventh year in a row under the sponsorship of the KUD "Korana". This event, held last night, gathered 12 singing groups and ensembles from different parts of Croatia, and has become recognizable for bringing together the best performers of bećarac, a traditional form of musical expression characteristic of Slavonia and Baranja.

Exceptional performance by a young female singing group
The award for the best verses this year went to the young female singing group from HKUD "Široka Kula", who impressed the jury and the audience with their talent and energy. Interestingly, this society has won the title at the Slunj evening of bećarac for the third time, but this year they decided to give a chance to younger members, girls aged 12 to 16, who have proven to be excellent interpreters of this demanding musical genre.

This group of young singers prepared for the competition for months, perfecting not only their performance but also their understanding of the old Slavonian customs that bećarac represents. Their hard work paid off as they won the hearts of the jury with their verses, and thus a valuable award.

Traditional event that connects generations
The Slunj evening of bećarac is not just a competition, but also an opportunity to connect different generations through a shared love of music and tradition. Such events are of exceptional importance in preserving cultural heritage, especially in smaller communities where tradition is passed down from generation to generation. HKUD "Široka Kula" has been acting as a guardian of tradition for many years, gathering not only older members but also young people who, through their participation in the society, learn about the importance of preserving local customs and identity.

This year, in addition to the winning female singing group, HKUD "Široka Kula" will have another important role. Their children's folklore group, which also gathers young members, will represent the Lika-Senj County at the 59th Vinkovci Autumns, which is a great recognition for their work so far and dedication to preserving folklore.

Bećarac as a symbol of unity and cultural heritage
Bećarac, as a unique form of musical expression, plays an important role in preserving the identity of the Croatian people, especially in rural areas. This cheerful and witty musical form, which is often performed in company and with the accompaniment of tamburica, not only entertains but also conveys important messages about everyday life, love, and unity. The Slunj evening of bećarac provides a unique opportunity to promote this tradition, and the success of the young singers from HKUD "Široka Kula" further confirms that young people are ready to take on the responsibility of preserving and continuing the tradition.

We bring you the verses that won the award this year, proudly performed by the young female singing group of HKUD "Široka Kula":
LAST NIGHT A GUY WAS BRAGGING TO ME,
THAT HE HAS WHEAT FROM LAST YEAR.
ALL HIS STRAW FIT IN HIS POCKETS,
BUT THE CHICKEN ATE THE WHEAT.

MY MOTHER-IN-LAW SENT ME A MESSAGE,
THAT I WON'T ENTER HER HOUSE ALIVE.
BUT I REPLIED TO HER LIKE THIS,
THAT I WON'T COME UNDER HER COMMAND EASILY.

MY DEAR, I WILL BE A LADY,
PUSHING A CART THROUGH THE SUPERMARKET.
DEAR MOTHER, THAT'S YOUR LOSS,
I'LL BE A NUN, YOU'LL BE WITHOUT A SON-IN-LAW.

WHEN A STRING ON THE TAMBURICA BREAKS,
THE MAYOR WILL PAY FOR IT.
DEAR JURY, DON'T GIVE US A MINUS,
WE WROTE THIS TEXT BACK IN WINTER.