Bulgaria won the Eurovision Song Contest for the first time on Saturday in a final overshadowed by five countries boycotting Gaza, claiming a landslide victory despite another huge public vote for runner-up Israel.
The fierce and traditional competition involving pop musicians from various countries in Europe and beyond, now in its 70th year, has been plunged into crisis due to Israel’s military offensive in Gaza, a response to an attack led by Hamas on October 7, 2023.
Heavy public broadcasters in Spain, the Netherlands and Ireland, as well as Iceland and Slovenia, do not participate in protests against Israel’s involvement.
Israel has claimed an international smear campaign against it.
His performance in the final was not affected by any apparent protest, unlike Tuesday’s semi-final.
“This is unbelievable. I don’t even know what’s going on right now,” Bulgarian contestant Dara told a press conference after winning with her dance song “Bangaranga” that completely avoided politics.
The song touches on themes of empowerment and surrendering to the night. It also left many wondering about its meaning.
“Bangaranga is a feeling that everyone finds themselves in. It’s a time when you choose to be in love and not afraid,” Dara said when asked to describe the song in the “green room” where the artists are waiting for the results.
