Eurovision Song Contest victor Dara has revealed that she contemplated withdrawing from the competition on two separate occasions prior to securing Bulgaria’s inaugural win.
The artist behind the hit “Bangaranga” shared with BBC Newsbeat that the immense pressure led her to consider stepping away to safeguard her mental well-being.
Getty ImagesThe 27-year-old artist recounted experiencing significant anxiety upon being announced as Bulgaria’s representative, a reaction she attributed to her recently diagnosed ADHD, fearing the contest’s demands would exacerbate her condition.
“That was my body’s response,” Dara explained, “and I spent three hours trying to calm myself down.”
Dara achieved a record-breaking victory in May, despite initially being considered an outsider for the competition.
Her performance was a masterclass in polished presentation blended with quirky charm, boasting a strong personality and one of the most memorable hooks in the contest’s history.
However, Bulgaria’s historic win was nearly jeopardised had its star performer followed through on her intention to withdraw.
“The first time I declined was due to certain clauses in the contract that I wasn’t comfortable with,” Dara stated.
As a well-established artist, she encountered additional challenges when her participation as Bulgaria’s first Eurovision entrant since 2022 was confirmed.
“I immediately felt as though I had done something wrong, that I wasn’t deserving,” she confessed. “I didn’t want to jeopardise my mental health to a point where recovery would be impossible.”
Alma Bengtson / EBUThe Eurovision Song Contest is notoriously demanding for its participants, requiring them to navigate an increasingly politicised environment, a rigorous schedule, and a massive global audience.
When asked by commentator Graham Norton for advice for performers based on his own experience in 2024, Olly Alexander’s response was succinct: “Get yourself a really good therapist.”
Dara credits the professional support she received following her ADHD diagnosis with preparing her for the contest.
“I work with a therapist, and she helped me manage my feelings in crowded environments,” she shared. “I think she did an excellent job. I truly felt in my element wherever I went.”
Dara also noted that breathing exercises, drawing, journaling, and meditation were instrumental in “keeping her centred.”
“Eurovision is immense, perhaps the pinnacle of achievement for artists,” she stated. “Yet, I’ve never felt more at ease on stage, more secure.”
Vienna saved its most significant moment for Dara, delivering one of the most decisive victories in Eurovision’s storied history.
“I was simply calm,” Dara recalled, describing her state of mind as the points accumulated from across the globe.
“I opened my heart and repeatedly thought, ‘Thank you, God, for placing me on this stage and for the people surrounding me.'”
Getty ImagesEven before the confetti had settled in Austria, Bulgaria’s national broadcaster BNT confirmed Sofia as the host city for the following year.
Dara was greeted by jubilant crowds upon her return to the Bulgarian capital, where she is expected to play a significant role in the country’s plans for 2027.
However, after securing her place in Eurovision’s pantheon of legends in Vienna, Dara’s vision for future success is decidedly more personal.
“I aspire to have children someday,” she expressed. “My health is paramount, far more important than career success.”
“Achieving success as a human being is a major priority for me.”
Business Style Takeaway: Dara’s journey underscores the critical importance of mental resilience and self-care in high-stakes environments, a lesson increasingly vital for business leaders navigating intense market pressures. Brands aiming for authentic global connection must prioritise not only performance but also the holistic well-being of their talent, resonating with a modern audience that values authenticity and mental health awareness.
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Learn more at : www.bbc.com