Kenan Kajan, Zalik, Bosnia & Herzegovina
The Folks of Zalik
Author: Kenan Kajan
Every locality possesses its own unique characteristics that distinguish it and contribute to its reputation. Whether it’s the town square, parks, notable figures, structures, or landmarks, each place has something that sets it apart. In our town, it is the premises of the local community association known as ‘The Folks of Zalik.’ While it may not seem particularly extraordinary or captivating at first glance, what truly sets it apart is the daily convergence of diverse nationalities, generations, perspectives, and opinions, which inevitably collide with one another. Rarely, if ever, do we witness situations where the majority finds complete agreement on a specific topic, whether it’s sports, society, politics, or even global warming.
Everyday life in that place transforms into a lively debate show, where each table has its own voice. Privacy is non-existent; conversations at one table are interrupted by interjections from neighbouring tables, causing the discussion to spread and involve everyone present in that moment. Here, you will come across a multitude of sayings, some of which may be unfounded or fictional yet they are presented as the wisdom of older individuals or imaginary characters.
However, the association’s beginnings were met with considerable challenges. Navigating us through the narrative is Miran, who oversees the association’s premises and operations.
“My dear friend, we were young and full of life, brimming with energy and enthusiasm. I had envisioned and initiated this project with a different approach in mind, but the way it currently operates has proven to be better than its challenging beginnings. You remember how it all started about 7-8 years ago – late-night music, wild parties, and with the parties came issues, including occasional fights. I had to take on the role of a peacemaker, frequently intervening and sometimes even getting involved in the altercations. Back then, the association was open around the clock, and I never had a moment of rest. However, everything changed at the core when my son was born.
That significant life event led me to make a pivotal decision—to redefine the purpose and essence of our association. The initial step involved eliminating alcohol, which proved to be the right choice. I introduced billiards, backgammon, darts, and various other social games. However, altering the clientele who had been attending since the beginning presented a challenge. To enhance the outdoor area, I introduced a range of toys for children, including swings, see-saws, slides, and more. Adapting to the new appearance and adjusted dynamics wasn’t easy for people, and they required a period of transition before returning. As time went on, the association saw the return of the original attendees, alongside the arrival of new visitors who began to frequent the place, embracing it as a part of their regular routine. For instance, even Kamaćo, who used to come regularly for a couple of beers after lunch, started returning as well.
It took him a while to adapt to the absence of beer. However, he successfully overcame it and continued his visits, sharing his usual escapades and stories. He proudly refers to himself as a true local of Mostar, boasting an extensive collection of jokes, anecdotes, and intriguing sayings. One of his renowned sayings, associated with the first rays of spring sun, goes like this: “Those who bask in the early spring sun won’t live to see their 50th birthday.” He always adds, “That’s what the old folks used to say,” despite the fact that he himself is 75 years old. Another example is Tura, an educated gentleman who dedicated his entire professional career to the tax administration. He would drop by “for a couple of sips,” as he liked to put it. Nonetheless, his true passion lay in history, particularly the history of the Balkan region. The conversation often revolved around the question of who held dominion over the Balkans for 500 years, referring to the Ottoman Empire, as well as the various iterations of Yugoslavia, extending to the current issues of our present-day nation.
I must also acknowledge the remarkable younger crowd, who have shown immense resilience in the face of challenging life circumstances. One notable individual is ‘our Scandinavian,’ as we affectionately refer to him. He enters the room with an infectious smile, radiating positivity, and never fails to inquire, “Who’s joining us? Nobody can keep up!” Just as we were engrossed in conversation, our friend Bjata walks in. He carries a weighty life story marked by poverty and parental abandonment, yet he perseveres against all odds and actively participates in our activities. Bjata has become the heart and soul of our group, consistently donning a smile and earning the affection of all. He treats others with kindness and respect, serving as an inspiration to us all.
I also must share my greatest sense of accomplishment and fulfilment within this association: successfully encouraging parents with young children to join us. During the summer months, they gather in the garden, where the delightful sounds of children playing, laughing, and occasionally crying fill the air. It is truly heart-warming to witness the beauty that children bring to the world. Reflecting on this, I can’t help but think how much better it is compared to our original concept. It makes me contemplate the outcome if we had persisted with heavy drinking, alcohol, and the negative atmosphere that once prevailed. So, my dear friend, I have shared with you the story of how our space, affectionately known as ‘our Buhara,’ (a flea house) came into existence – its humble beginnings and its purpose. Initially, I used to feel a sense of annoyance when people referred to our place as a buhara, but I have come to understand why it took on that name. It symbolizes the transformative journey we embarked upon and the positive changes we have embraced. As time passed, it no longer bothered me, and I now find it rather endearing.”
In our local association, often referred to as our café, you won’t find any Wi-Fi, which is quite a remarkable aspect today. It is safe to say that we are quite possibly the only establishment in the entire city that does not offer Wi-Fi connectivity. Instead, people gather here to engage in games of billiards, backgammon, and darts, while also relishing genuine conversations with one another. It serves as a meeting place that attracts individuals from diverse backgrounds, each with their own distinct profiles and life stories. Within the walls of this establishment, you uncover captivating, intimate, and personal details about people who would otherwise remain mere acquaintances. This place has transformed into a sanctuary of sorts, a haven where individuals feel at ease exchanging thoughts, sharing news, and recounting their life experiences, all without the need for internet access.