On this day, August 5, 1986, Himzo Polovina passed away—one of the greatest performers, researchers, and collectors of sevdalinka. Through his remarkable voice, profound knowledge, and lifelong dedication, he left an indelible mark on the cultural history of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Alongside his outstanding musical career, Himzo Polovina was also a distinguished physician and specialist in neuropsychiatry. In his medical practice, he successfully applied the principles of psychiatry, sociotherapy, and music therapy. His scientific and artistic achievements stand as a testament to the unique connection between medicine, humanity, and music.
His interpretations of sevdalinka and his commitment to researching and preserving this musical tradition established him as one of its most important custodians. To this day, many regard Himzo Polovina as the greatest interpreter of sevdalinka of all time.
The Museum of Sarajevo proudly preserves the legacy of Himzo Polovina through exhibits displayed in the permanent exhibition of the Art House of Sevdah, a unique museum and gallery dedicated to sevdalinka—the traditional urban folk song of Bosnia and Herzegovina, inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2024. Created in cooperation between the Museum of Sarajevo and the Sevdah Foundation, the permanent exhibition presents the development of sevdalinka, its most prominent performers, and a rich collection of archival materials that highlight its historical and cultural significance.
The Museum of Sarajevo is committed to preserving, interpreting, and promoting sevdalinka as one of the most recognizable expressions of the cultural identity of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
We also warmly invite you to join us every Wednesday at Svrzo's House for evenings dedicated to sevdalinka, featuring performances by Damir Imamović. In the authentic atmosphere of one of Sarajevo's most beautiful traditional Bosnian houses, visitors can experience sevdalinka in a setting that beautifully brings together tradition, emotion, and contemporary interpretation.
As we remember Himzo Polovina today, we pay tribute to an artist who preserved the soul of sevdalinka through his voice and left behind a legacy that continues to inspire new generations.
