The small lights outside Galeria “Qahili” illuminate the fabric of the Red and Black flag, creating the impression of a lit pathway. The visuals nearby narrate a story that extends to the light piercing through symbols. These images encapsulate the armed resistance of Adem Jashari and his family in Prekaz, offering glimpses of life before everything took a tragic turn. On 5 March, 27 years ago, a pivotal moment occurred. Two days later, 59 members of the Jashari family, including the legendary commander Adem Jashari, lost their lives. Every year, torches are lit on the Night of Fires in remembrance of their sacrifice. Near the gallery, torches and candles were also placed as a tribute. The music accompanying this installation completes the experience, demonstrating that sometimes words are unnecessary. Music alone, combined with carefully chosen elements placed in meaningful locations, can evoke profound respect for sacrifice without requiring a speech, as is often customary.

The art installation at Galeria “Qahili” is titled “36 Hours”, serving as both a homage and a gesture of gratitude for life today and for happiness itself. Its presentation states, “Music marks happiness, while fire represents the gun.” The installation featured music from renowned local artists, mixed by DJ Flow (Faton Loshi), blending past experiences with present realities. This was further emphasised by intermittent gunfire sounds symbolising curtailed freedom—yet life persisted despite fear. The music curated by DJ Flow was entertaining but carried a powerful message. The connection between the songs lasted 36 minutes, commemorating the epic 36-hour battle fought by the Jashari family against Serbian forces.
“The mix of songs is accompanied by gunfire—a powerful symbol reminding us that the peace we enjoy today did not come without sacrifice. It was won by those who gave their lives for freedom. The idea to hold this homage and create this unique fusion of music and symbolism from the Jashari family’s battle against Serbian forces came from Nita, who brought this concept with deep respect for history and their sacrifice,” DJ Flow explained in an interview following the conclusion of the installation’s 36-hour cycle. Even without entering the gallery, one could take much away from it. Passers-by near the gallery became part of this tribute as well. Inside was an entirely different world—one that spoke through colours, figures, and emotions conveyed by an artist deeply connected to their roots and appreciative of freedom born from sacrifice.

One striking painting depicted a man whose expression seemed to merge with his plis (traditional Albanian hat), resembling a violin bow. Fully dressed in traditional attire, he appeared to lean on an instrument as if preparing to play notes over a life paused—a new life just beginning to unfold. Above him stretched an entirely uniform sky. The phrase “Kosovo is my blood that cannot be forgiven” was powerfully deconstructed through hand symbols. Ali Podrimja’s emblematic verse is read not with letters but through the movement of hands. The painter Eshref Qahili communicates themes of resistance, survival, and triumph through his works, which unravel the mosaic of storytelling. He had long believed in freedom. All his artworks are presented in this spirit within the gallery.
The “Night of Fires,” an artistic manifestation, has now become a tradition at this gallery. It was the idea of the painter Eshref Qahili and Nita Qahili, both leaders and coordinators of this space. “For over a decade, this event has been more than just a tradition – it has been a part of our artistic and historical soul,” Nita expressed in an interview. According to her, the “Night of Fires” represents a living memory of sacrifice and resilience. “The torches and candles that illuminate the space, intertwined with my father’s artworks – which embody the spirit of war and resistance – create a powerful landscape of emotions. All of this is accompanied by the music of Flow, making the night an extraordinary and unforgettable experience for every visitor.”
She further explained that they organise this event with respect and humility to honour the Jashari family – a family whose unparalleled heroism and sacrifice revealed to the world the terror and massacres inflicted by Serbian forces on innocent people. “They did not surrender; they did not break. Instead, they became the symbol of our national resilience. For us, the ‘Night of Fires’ is not merely a commemoration but a legacy. It is a moment for reflection, tribute, and dedication to ensure that their sacrifice is never forgotten. It is an unwritten pledge to keep our historical memory alive so that future generations are inspired by the courage, strength, and dignity of those who gave everything for our freedom,” Nita added.
Galeria “Qahili” is an artistic space that connects Kosovo with regional and global art while preserving and showcasing works that delve into and safeguard Kosovo’s history. And it does so in a way that few could imagine!