Kurban-Bajram in Vukeljići has a special charm

The village of Vukeljići, about 13 kilometers from Fojnica, is one of the most famous Sufi sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The tekke built in the 18th century still gathers dervishes from all over the world, eager for mysticism and spirituality. Therefore, Kurban-Bajram, one of the two greatest Muslim holidays, has a special charm in this place.

Only about 15 inhabitants live in the village throughout the year, but in recent days the streets and yards are livelier than before. A large number of those whose origins are from Vukeljići come to the village to celebrate Kurban-Bajram, which is being celebrated this year from September 12 to 15. Muslims around the world sacrifice a kurban on this holiday, offering a sacrifice (sheep, cow, camel, goat) to the Almighty God.

Salem Šehović, a Bosnian journalist and writer, also originating from this village, explains to the Patria news agency that he eagerly awaits Bajram in Vukeljići throughout the year.

- It is very beautiful here. We have preserved the customs with the celebration of Kurban-Bajram as they were practiced here several hundred years ago - says Šehović.

- The day before, the women make baklava, and the men prepare everything necessary for slaughtering the kurban. Special care is taken of the kurban. The animal is given slightly better food than usual. Because the kurban must not be thirsty or hungry.

On Bajram, one wakes up early, checks on the kurban, drinks coffee, and then the men go to the mosque to perform the Bajram prayer.

Upon returning from the mosque, Bajram coffee is drunk again, baklava is eaten, and then the men go to slaughter the kurban, so that lunch can be prepared from the kurban meat and so that the kurban meat can be distributed to neighbors. On the first day of Bajram, people are mostly at home, and during the following days, they visit relatives and neighbors - explains Šehović.

Vukeljići is one of the three most famous Muslim pilgrimage sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina, writes Patria.

96-year-old Nana Selima Ribo lives in Vukeljići. She has celebrated as many kurban and Ramadan Bajrams.