Bulgarian singer Dara refutes false claim of kinship with crime boss

An unverified rumor circulated online alleging that popular Bulgarian singer Dara is the niece of underworld figure Krasimir Marinkov, known as “Madzho.” The rumor claimed the businessman, whose wealth is estimated at over €1.3 billion, had paid a large sum to secure Dara a top placement in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Dara publicly denied the claim, stating she has never met Marinkov and has no family connection. She explained that her family was modest; her mother worked as a shop assistant in Varna, and Dara’s musical training came from state schools and free local music programs, not from paid lessons or external sponsorship. The singer emphasized that her career results from her own effort and team support, not any alleged patronage.