Furgula, a rocker tailor, DJ, and shopkeeper, has become a hero of Maribor

Igor Furgula, an 81-year-old tailor, DJ, chef, and master of the craft known as "kramarija," has been honored with the city's bravery award after rescuing a one-and-a-half-year-old child from the Drava River earlier this year. The incident, which took place in Maribor, has made him a local hero and brought renewed attention to his colorful life, spanning decades of artistic expression, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. Furgula’s story began long before the rescue. Born in Maribor, he grew up surrounded by the traditions of the region, learning tailoring from his aunt, who was a prominent figure in the local jet set. His early experiences included selling cinema tickets at just 15 years old, a venture that laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial spirit. Over time, he developed multiple talents, becoming a respected tailor, a passionate DJ, and even a skilled cook. His multifaceted career culminated in a unique one-day event called “Furgula Forever” during Maribor’s tenure as the European Capital of Culture in 2012, where he performed in four distinct roles: tailor, DJ, chef, and master of kramarija, a traditional Slovenian craft involving intricate embroidery and textile work. The recent honor comes amid growing recognition of Furgula’s contributions to Maribor’s cultural identity. His distinctive trousers, often worn during performances and public appearances, became so iconic that they were once banned from two local high schools due to their unconventional style. Despite such controversies, Furgula remained steadfast in his belief that individuality should not be suppressed. He has always resisted conforming to societal norms, stating he never wanted to be “just a sheep.” During his visit to the mayor of Maribor, Furgula expressed gratitude for the award while emphasizing the importance of preserving local heritage and encouraging young people to pursue their passions. He spoke passionately about the role of art and craftsmanship in shaping the character of the city, recalling how his work as a tailor helped define the look of Maribor’s rock generation in the late 20th century. As both a tailor and DJ, he played a key role in creating the visual and auditory identity of the city’s music scene during its most vibrant period. Furgula’s life has been marked by numerous unusual events, including romantic relationships, personal milestones, and encounters with rare objects that have shaped his journey. One notable episode involved a mysterious artifact he acquired during a trip abroad, which he later incorporated into his kramarija designs. Another memorable moment came when he hosted a private concert in a converted warehouse, drawing crowds from across the country. These stories, along with his ongoing creative projects, continue to inspire those around him. The award ceremony highlighted Furgula’s enduring connection to Maribor, a city that has witnessed both his triumphs and challenges. His resilience and dedication to his crafts have earned him admiration from locals and visitors alike. As he continues to innovate and share his knowledge, Furgula remains a living symbol of Maribor’s rich cultural tapestry. Furgula plans to use the award to support youth initiatives focused on arts and vocational training. He recently announced a collaboration with a local school to establish a workshop where students can learn tailoring, DJing, and other skills under his guidance. This project aims to bridge generations and preserve the legacy of traditional crafts in modern society.