The inauguration of new prime minister Peter Magyar in Hungary on 9/5 marked the end of Viktor Orban's 16-year rule. The day-long ceremony featured numerous symbolic messages, including the return of the european union (EU) flag to the Hungarian parliament. 'Ode to Joy', the EU's official anthem, resonated before tens of thousands gathered in Budapest.
However, attention quickly shifted to Zsolt Hegedus, a renowned Hungarian orthopedic surgeon. Ahead of the inauguration, his phone was flooded with messages, all asking the same question: would he repeat his dance from the Tisza party's victory celebration in april?
"'There were many messages then, like 'Doctor Hegedus, will you liven up the celebration?' or 'Will there be dancing?'", he recounted to the Guardian.
Last month, a video of Hegedus spontaneously dancing to music at the Tisza party's victory celebration went viral on social media, captivating audiences not only in Hungary but also across many Western nations.
Prior to last weekend's inauguration, Hegedus had been resolute about not repeating the performance, explaining that the first dance was a spontaneous outburst of emotion. He maintained this position even after learning that singer Jalja, whose song he had danced to, would be performing at new prime minister Magyar's inauguration.
However, just hours later, he found himself unable to resist the moment. 'When the music started, I could see how eagerly everyone was waiting for this moment. I didn't want to disappoint them', he said.
Images of Hegedus's energetic dance, which even included mimicking an electric guitar, quickly went viral on social media. The public's enthusiastic response made him feel like a rock star.
"'I am still on an incredible emotional rollercoaster', he said. 'The affection and acceptance from everyone during and after the event made me feel like I have fans'."
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Prime minister Peter Magyar (left) and Zsolt Hegedus at the inauguration ceremony in front of the parliament building in Budapest on 9/5. Photo: Reuters |
Amid pressure to reform Hungary's healthcare system, which lags behind the rest of Europe, Hegedus expressed his intention to leverage his unexpected popularity. He aims to encourage citizens to pursue healthy lifestyles and prioritize mental well-being.
"'Go outside, dance, be together. Don't just focus on electronic devices. Enjoy the moment', he urged the Hungarian people, recalling the "tanchaz" model of community dance halls once popular in his country."
Hegedus believes these dances also symbolize a new political atmosphere following the historic election. He suggests Hungarians will feel a sense of relief after the shift in power. As an example, he noted the disappearance of numerous billboards that once filled the streets, designed to incite fear about the EU, Ukraine, and other issues, following Orban's defeat.
"'This is a new wind', he said."
Thanh Danh (Source: Guardian)
