Darina Nikolajeva Jotova, known simply as Dara, won Eurovision 2026 for Bulgaria with her song "Bangaranga." The performance captivated both the audience and the jury, earning her over 500 points. Dara is particularly proud of her education in traditional Bulgarian folk singing.

She studied at the National School of Arts Dobri Hristov in Varna, where she specialized in folk singing. Dara often emphasizes the influence of her traditional music training, saying, "I grew up with music obsessively, as if nothing else existed. Many are surprised when they learn I was trained in folk singing, but that technique and emotion are still in my DNA."

In addition to her successful music career, Dara has been a vocal coach on the show "Voice of Bulgaria" since 2021 and has twice guided her contestants to the win. She has also appeared on the show "Your Face Sounds Familiar."

What Message Does Dara's Song "Bangaranga" Convey?

The song "Bangaranga" is a dense pop track with folk elements, conveying a strong message about self-empowerment and fighting anxiety.