Derviš - paša “Dedaga” Čengić

Bosnian and Ottoman army commander. Derviš-pasha Dedaga Čengić, son of Smail-aga Čengić and Ottoman choir commander, was born around 1823 in Lipnik (Gacko in Kula Fazlagića) and passed away in 1874 in Konjic on his journey from Gacko to Sarajevo. He succeeded his father in military service at the age of 18, leading an army to Drobnjake and Piva to avenge his father's death. He emerged victorious in battles against the Montenegrins, notably defeating Drago Kovačević, a prominent Montenegrin hero. In 1841, Dedaga Čengić avenged his father by defeating Drobnjak and Moračani, resulting in the loss of 170 lives and the destruction of several villages. He then honored his father's memory by decorating his grave with the heads of the fallen enemies. Mustafa (Mujo) Tanović from Breštic (Breščanin) also distinguished himself in this battle by presenting three severed heads to Dedaga Čengić. Dedaga Čengić served as the commander of the border guards, holding the rank of nuvalaj (colonel) from 1855 for two decades. Recognized for his military achievements, he was bestowed with the title of paso (equivalent to today's general) in 1869. He was highly esteemed among the Gačans and eventually settled in Sarajevo, where he constructed a villa known as Čengić Villa. His philanthropic endeavors extended to Mostar, where he funded the reconstruction of the Ali-hodža mosque, now known as Dedaga's mosque. Dedaga's endowment in Mostar included properties such as houses, an orchard, and the mosque itself. He fathered several children, including Almasa-hanuma, who became the mother of Safvet-beg Bašagić, a prominent Bosnian figure. Dedaga Čengić passed away during a journey to Sarajevo in 1874 and was laid to rest beside the Čaršija mosque in Konjic. His grave is adorned with a majestic stone sarcophagus, embellished with symbols reflecting his valor and legacy. Inscriptions in Turkish and Latin honoring his contributions to the faith and military service, urging future generations to heed the impermanence of worldly pursuits and embrace the path of truth and righteousness.