On 150th Anniversary of April Uprising Held in Panagyurishte

A conference marking the 150th anniversary of the 1876 April Uprising was held at the History Museum in Panagyurishte. This event concluded a series of discussions organized by the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) to foster dialogue regarding the anniversary. Participants included BTA Director General Kiril Valchev, Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) Director General Milen Mitev, Prof.

Georgi Valchev, Rector of the St Kliment Ohridski University of Sofia, Panagyurishte Mayor Zhelyazko Gagov, journalist Boyko Vassilev, and Assoc. Prof. Atanas Shopov.

BTA Director General Valchev stated that discussions on the April Uprising revive the memory of martyrs for Bulgaria’s freedom. He noted that the discussions, held across the four revolutionary districts—Veliko Tarnovo, Sliven, Vratsa, and Panagyurishte—as well as Ruse and Giurgiu, emphasized the need to prioritize overarching goals before tackling difficult steps. Valchev also announced that the 2026 BTA Media Meeting would focus on “Media and Leaders” in Hungary.

BNR Director General Mitev stressed the media’s crucial role in shaping public opinion, noting that discussions about the uprising help the media connect with the public. He advised that national pride must be cultivated responsibly, emphasizing that media and scholars must build national self-esteem by appreciating history and achievements. Prof.

Valchev urged viewing history as a living subject, cautioning against “false patriotism.” He identified key lessons from 1876, including the desire for self-determination, belief in the country’s future, and the necessity of involving the younger generation. Panagyurishte Mayor Gagov suggested the anniversary should promote unity and national pride, urging Bulgarians to honor the legacy of ordinary people who became heroes. Boyko Vassilev highlighted the enduring relevance of the uprising’s themes to contemporary Bulgarian public life.

Topics: #anniversary #april #uprising