A Musical Tribute to the Blue-Eyed Giant by Grup İlyada

Nazım Hikmet Ran was commemorated on the 62nd anniversary of his passing with a special concert organized by Bornova Municipality. The universal voice of Turkish literature was honored through poetry, songs, and folk melodies at the “With Respect to the Blue-Eyed Giant” event held at the Ayfer Feray Open-Air Theater in Büyükpark.

Grup İlyada, composed of music instructors from Bornova Municipality and known for blending local artistic sensibilities with professionalism, performed works inspired by Nazım’s profound poetry. The concert drew a large crowd of Bornova residents, who sang along in unison to unforgettable pieces such as “Karlı Kayın Ormanı” (Snowy Beech Forest), “Güzel Günler Göreceğiz Çocuklar” (We’ll See Beautiful Days, Children), “Ceviz Ağacı” (Walnut Tree), and “Senin Düşünmek” (To Think of You).

Mayor Eşki: “Nazım’s Language is the Conscience of the People”

Bornova Mayor Ömer Eşki emphasized that Nazım Hikmet was not just a poet, but the voice of peace, justice, labor, and freedom. He said, “His verses carry the spirit, determination, and love of our people. In Bornova, we not only remember Nazım, but also take it as our duty to keep alive his dreams of equality, progress, and a dignified life. Tonight is a tribute woven with culture, art, and collective memory.”

Bornova: A City Resisting Through Culture

Continuing its mission of socializing art and making it accessible in public spaces, Bornova Municipality hosts cultural events year-round. This special concert, held in the emotional atmosphere of the Ayfer Feray Open-Air Theater, was more than a commemoration—it became a memorable gathering etched into the city's cultural memory.