"The strong words of Hristo Botev sound so true and universally human, because they are supported by deeds. It is our duty to pass on the Botev covenants to future generations as an example and hope in moments of difficulty and trials, with which our day abounds."

The words of the Minister of Culture Prof. Velislav Minekov

Velislav Minekov is a professor at the National Academy of Arts (NAA).

Completing his education are part of the congratulatory address delivered today to the mayor of Kalofer by the Deputy Minister of Culture Prof. Dr. Plamen Slavov, who participated in the celebrations in Kalofer, reports the Ministry of Culture (MK).  

"I believe that in our history there are a number of significant events that only at first glance seem to be random. And one of them is the appearance of Botev. It is significant that according to the new style of chronology he comes to this world in the Epiphany, and in the old style - on December 25 - the Nativity of Christ. Two dates that gathered the yearnings for independence of generations of Bulgarians. Dates strongly connected with the Faith in the Bulgarian Revival and salvation! Faith from the mind and heart, for which Botev would later write "My Prayer" , it is also said in the congratulatory address. 

"So, on January 6, 2023, we once again gratefully look back in time. We mentally walk that dangerous road along which the Botevite Chetniks pass from Kozloduy to Okolchitsa. Today, the whole of Bulgaria bows with pride before their feat. A bow that unites us in a nation, in a people with hope and striving for development and dignity. Robespierre said that not enough has been done for the fatherland, if everything is not done. And for over a century, Botev's work and his legendary revolutionary path have ignited a flame in the hearts of generations of Bulgarians and persistently remind us what duty is to the Motherland," the Minister of Culture wrote in his congratulatory address.

175 years since the birth of Hristo Botev

He recalls that MK will present an award in the name of Hristo Botev - for poetry and journalism.

"I am convinced that this award will encourage us to follow Botev's example together and to remember that freedom and justice are won every day by each of us," believes Prof. Minekov.

Velislav Minekov

Hristo Botev

Ministry of Culture