Abrašević

The cultural and artistic association RKUD “Abrašević” started operating in 1926. After its establishment, three sections were active within the Society: drama, tamburica (musical instrument), and educational/cultural. The ensemble of folk songs and dances, “Abrašević,” was one segment of the Society’s overall work. The tamburica section played a significant role in gathering young progressive forces. The police banned the activities of “Abrašević” from 1929 to 1935 when the tamburica section resumed its work. Performances took place at parties in the city, especially at the Workers’ Hall during dance events. Each party was opened with a song: Workers’ Greeting / Greetings to the Brave Fighters / Fighting for Rights and Labor / Let’s Be Merry and Happy / Solidarity as Always.

In 1939, demonstrations were organized in Mostar with the aim of fighting against fascism, for better workers’ rights and a better life. That year, the “Workers’ Hall” where RKUD “Abrašević” operated was closed. At that time, the leader of the tamburica section, Mustafa Bjelavac, and the leader of the drama section and “Esperanto” course, Nikola Abramović-Bjelica (the founder of the Society), were taken to prison in Lepoglava and did not return. In addition to many members of the Society, tamburica players such as Kosta Kaličin, Ibrahim Pezo, Haso Fazlinović, and Husein Maslić-Husa lost their lives during World War II. During the war from 1941 to 1945, RKUD “Abrašević” was not operational.

Source: http://www.most.ba/06364/089.htm, Photographs: CIDOM.