BABA HAKKI AND SULEYMAN SEBA: THE LEGENDARY PHOTO

The two monumental figures who hold the most special place in the hearts of every fan who watches matches shoulder to shoulder in the stands and never stops supporting their team live for the Besiktas community are undoubtedly Hakki Yeten (Baba Hakki) and Suleyman Seba. The legendary photograph featuring these two historical giants, who built the club's unwavering stance and moral values with their honorable lives dedicated to the black-and-white crest, was taken in 1986 by Hurriyet reporter Ilyas Namoglu. During Suleyman Seba's arduous first term as president and Hakki Yeten's tenure as honorary president, a sincere conversation at the club building in Akaretler laid the foundation for this unforgettable moment. Upon Seba's enthusiastic mention of the new plots of land acquired for the club, Namoglu insisted with journalistic reflex, and they went to the vast land where the Akatlar Sports Hall is located today. Looking with great pride and gratitude at Suleyman Seba, who was explaining his new projects and the future of the club on the land, Baba Hakki kissed the legendary president on the forehead, saying, "You have provided great services to Besiktas; you are truly a man to be kissed on the forehead," and this unique moment was immortalized forever by Namoglu's shutter.

Another interesting and heartwarming detail of this historic visit is what Birol Namoglu, who was with Ilyas Namoglu that day and is now the lead singer of the famous band "Gripin," experienced. Teasing Birol, who was just a child, the late president Suleyman Seba said, "Oh, forget Galatasaray; let's make you a Besiktas fan." The young boy's response with childish innocence, "It's not too late yet; would you like to become a Galatasaray fan?" caused both legends to burst into laughter under his father's stern gaze. That day, when these two names, who are symbols of honesty, elegance, and an unwavering sense of belonging for all generations who excitedly follow their teams in the stands, came together, ceased to be just a photograph and turned into the greatest historical document reflecting the soul of a club. Stating that he is always immensely proud of his work, Ilyas Namoglu expressed that he carries the invaluable honor of bringing the last defenders of lost values to society with such a unique memory.

IMAGE: HÜRRİYET