Sixteen years after gaining national attention, the story of the Janković brothers from the remote Serbian village of Zabrđe continues to captivate interest, albeit with a more subdued narrative. The brothers, who were once the focus of a film that depicted their lives as bachelors in a village devoid of women, are now represented solely by Rodoljub “Rodo” Janković, the youngest and only remaining resident of Zabrđe.
The Janković brothers became a cultural phenomenon in Serbia when a film highlighted their bachelorhood in a secluded village. The film, which resonated across Europe, depicted the brothers’ candid and unfiltered lives, capturing the imagination of audiences with their earnest desire to find companionship amidst their isolated existence. Rodo, in particular, became an internet sensation due to his candid remarks about rural life and the perceived virtues of country living.
In a recent exploration by a journalist seeking to uncover the current status of the brothers, it was revealed that Rodo remains in Zabrđe, having reached his fifties. Despite the passage of time, Rodo has chosen to stay in his ancestral home, maintaining a solitary life in a village that has seen little change in terms of population. The village, once known for its lack of female residents, remains sparsely populated, with Rodo as its sole inhabitant.
The journey to find Rodo was challenging, involving a trek through difficult terrain and reliance on local knowledge. Mićo, a 72-year-old acquaintance familiar with the area, proved instrumental in guiding the journalist to Zabrđe. Mićo, who had not visited the village in five years, expressed both nostalgia and a sense of adventure in revisiting the place he once called home. Upon arrival, Rodo greeted Mićo warmly, offering hospitality and sharing the breathtaking views from his property.
Rodo’s decision to remain in Zabrđe, despite its isolation, reflects his contentment with the rural lifestyle. He has reportedly found a partner but prefers to keep his private life away from the public eye. Rodo’s resilience is evident in his acceptance of the challenges posed by the remote location, including encounters with wildlife such as snakes, wolves, and bears.
The story of the Janković brothers, particularly Rodo’s continued presence in Zabrđe, offers a poignant reflection on rural life in Serbia and the enduring cultural narratives surrounding bachelorhood and isolation. While the village remains largely unchanged, the brothers’ story continues to resonate, highlighting the complexities of life in remote areas and the personal choices that define one’s connection to home and heritage.
