The 15th Svetosavska Academy, organized by the Association of Writers of Serbia (UKS), celebrated its 120th anniversary on January 26, 2026, honoring individuals and institutions that have significantly contributed to the legacy and development of Serbian literature. The event, held at the UKS’s ceremonial hall, drew literature enthusiasts and cultural figures, underscoring the importance of preserving Serbia’s rich literary heritage.
The gathering was blessed by Father Arsenije, the abbot of the Ribnica Monastery, setting a solemn tone for the celebration. Jasmina Trumbetaš Petrović, a leading soprano from the Belgrade Opera, performed the Svetosavska Hymn “Uskliknimo s ljubavlju,” further enriching the cultural ambiance of the occasion.
Miloš Janković, President of the UKS, emphasized the critical role of support from donors and benefactors, which was instrumental in marking the milestone year. He highlighted the potential neglect of Serbian institutions towards the literary giants who have shaped the UKS, including figures like Sima Matavulj, Isidora Sekulić, Miloš Crnjanski, and Ivo Andrić. Janković’s remarks pointed to a broader concern about the appreciation and recognition of cultural and literary contributions in Serbia.
The academy also featured a speech by Milan Lukić, who reflected on the enlightenment brought by Saint Sava, the patron saint of education and literature in Serbia. Lukić’s address underscored the enduring significance of maintaining goodness, beauty, and tradition in Serbian culture.
Despite the celebratory mood, the event took place in the yet-to-be-renovated UKS building on Francuska Street, which, fortunately, did not suffer from leaks due to the dry weather. This detail highlights ongoing challenges faced by cultural institutions in Serbia, including the need for infrastructure improvements.
The UKS awarded several honors during the event, including the prestigious Svetosavska Blagodarja, recognizing individuals and institutions for their contributions to the association’s prestige and the preservation of literary traditions. The recipients of the Golden Plaque included Živorad Ajdačić, Vidak Maslovarić, and Rada Komazec, while the Blagodarja was awarded to a diverse group of contributors, ranging from individuals like Katrina Kostić and Rade Kecojević to organizations such as DMV Industrial Control Systems and the Institute for Children’s Literature.
This celebration not only commemorated the UKS’s storied past but also served as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to sustain and promote Serbian literature and culture. The awards highlighted the collaborative spirit necessary to uphold the literary arts, involving a wide array of contributors from various sectors.
As the UKS continues to honor its past and look forward to the future, the event underscored the need for continued support and recognition of Serbia’s literary community. The association’s efforts to celebrate its history and the contributions of its
