Bulgaria wins Eurovision with song tied to Putin supporter, igniting controversy
DARA (screenshot)
The final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 did not pass without controversy this year. One of the most talked-about entries of the second semifinal was the winning performance from Bulgaria, represented by DARA with the track Bangaranga.
RBC-Ukraine explains what made Bulgaria’s performance memorable and why the contest song sparked controversy.
What Bulgaria’s performance was like
DARA delivered an aggressive EDM performance packed with neon lights, strobe effects, and dance breaks.
The song Bangaranga combines club electropop, festival-style sound, and Balkan influences. At the center of the performance was the image of a strong, uncontrollable heroine who challenged the rules and created chaos around herself.
Dancers joined the singer on stage, while the entire act was built around the atmosphere of a massive nighttime rave party.
The title “Bangaranga” itself also drew attention. Online users debated its meaning. Some fans linked the word to Jamaican slang, where “bangarang” means “chaos” or “noise,” while others searched for parallels with Balkan traditions and rituals.
DARA at Eurovision (screenshots)
DARA at Eurovision (screenshots)
DARA at Eurovision (screenshots)
About DARA
The artist’s real name is Darina Yotova. In Bulgaria, she has long held the status of one of the leading pop stars of the new generation.
DARA gained popularity after participating in the local version of The X Factor. Later, she released a series of hits, including Thunder, Call Me, and Mr. Rover. Her tracks stayed at the top of the Bulgarian music charts for years.
In addition to her music career, the singer also worked as a mentor on The Voice of Bulgaria and actively supported young performers.
For Bulgaria, participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 marked a return after a long break. The country last competed in the contest in 2022.
DARA’s Eurovision performance — Video
Scandal over the songwriters
The main discussion surrounding Bulgaria was not caused by the stage performance but by one of the authors of Bangaranga.
The track was co-written by Greek composer Dimitris Kontopoulos, who in previous years created Eurovision songs for Russian representatives. One of his longtime collaborators was Philipp Kirkorov, who openly supports Vladimir Putin’s regime.
Because of this, calls to avoid voting for Bulgaria began appearing on social media. Some Ukrainian Eurovision fans said that Dimitris Kontopoulos’ presence on the songwriting team raises serious questions for them, especially amid Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine.
Despite the wave of criticism, DARA herself has not publicly commented on the scandal.
