Jovan Bulj – The Graceful Policeman

A Belgrade traffic policeman, he was recognizable and remembered for his graceful movements while directing traffic.

In the early 1970s, he became an iconic figure in the Yugoslav capital. He regulated traffic at the exit of the Terazije Tunnel, near the Youth Center, and also on Terazije Square.

Although many explained his graceful movements by saying he had completed a months-long ballet course at the National Theatre in Belgrade, he denied this and explained that he was actively involved in sports, particularly football and handball.

He was a regular guest at receptions at the City Assembly and with President Josip Broz Tito. At the invitation of his British colleagues, he showcased his skills on London’s Piccadilly. He even achieved third place at the World Championship in graceful traffic regulation. He was also introduced to Queen Elizabeth.

After retiring prematurely in 1980, he worked for many years as a vendor at a newsstand in Block 70 in New Belgrade, alongside his wife, Eva. Later, he worked as a parking attendant in front of the rafts on the Sava River quay.

He passed away on February 3, 2010, in Belgrade, at the age of 71.

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