There are two major underlining currents that shape Grobari's philosophy and identity. The first, and more dominant, is the romanticism for the club that grew over time. It evolved from the affection that Partizan received from public figures including from some of the most influential 20th century Yugoslav writers such as Duško Radović. Radovic introduced romanticism not only into Partizan world but in Yugoslav sports as a whole. He was a renowned poet who left a profound mark in Serbian culture with among many things his aphorisms. National Children Theater in Belgrade and many Public Primary Schools bare his name in Serbia. From 1950-1980s he was a brilliant writer that became a lighthouse and a mouthpiece for those that truly loved Partizan and sports. Radovic is the brain behind Grobari's famous slogan: "Others are cheered for, Partizan is loved" as well as: "I have someone to love. I love Partizan"; "It isn't always easy to love Partizan but it is always nice"; "Partizan is good, so good that we don't have to hate others" ; and "That is the power of Partizan: the players and supporters are winning together". His poetry and literary works about Partizan, written between 1976-84, were published regularly in Partizan Herald during that time. His beautiful written works on Partizan eventually became a book: "Parni Valjak" - (Steam Roller) a reference that is used in many Grobari songs.
This attitude of loyalty and affection blossomed when the times were tough and it is the differentiating factor that separates Grobari from any other regional supporters. Partizan was a powerful player in the European competitions during the 1960-70s. But like life, in sports, success is cyclical and in the 1980s-early 1990s Partizan arch rival Red Star Belgrade had its best years as well as Hajduk and Dinamo Zagreb. During that period this enduring devotion for Partizan really flourished and it is when (1985) many Partizan poetry was accumulated, commercially produces and released as a musical record under the name: "Pesme Partizanovog Juga" - "Songs of Partizan's South" (refering to South Stand -designated Grobari area). This compilation, 10 songs of love for the club, became a staple in many family households and it is still passed from generation to generation. It is as melodic as it is poetic and continues to be sang at many Partizan matches to this day.
"Songs of Partizan's South"
As the biggest Partizan's poet, Dusko Radovic was teaching Grobari to cheer with compassion, absolute devotion and with respect. The Partizan way. Grobari will remember him as a fan from the western stands (casual supporters) - who has quietly moved restless souls of all the supporters forever. Dusko Radovic challenged himself professionally as a man, and was ultimately recognized depicting Partizan world for which his legacy became eternal in Grobari World. By immortalising the love for black-n-white colour, Radovic will always remain the pride of Grobari and Partizan. Despite eruption of post-civil war and contemporary global hooliganism, Grobari have traditionally and still do take comfort in making "loyalty" and "affection" staple of their identity. At times they have gone out of their way to minimize use of fancy pyros as to not to overshadow their beautiful songs.
"Snaga je u nama" - "The power is within us"
The second factor that shapes Grobari identity and therefore Partizan's philosophy is a lot more subtle. It is the audacious resilient character of Serbian people that is deeply entrenched in their culture and social fabric. This boldness and at times stubbornness stems from centuries long geo-political struggle for self-determination. This resilience deeply rooted in all Serbian sports. Athletes competing at any international stage are celebrated as national heroes regularly in Belgrade with the honorary reception at the airport and in front of the national parliament by a passionate crowd (amounting to thousands).
Motivation poster POP-Culture: Translation: "That is not just love. That is something much greater"
This is a spectacle that has become a routine in daily lives of Serbian people regardless of the sporting event, whether it is Novak Djokovic winning a Grand Slam or an Olympian winning a Bronze Medal in 10m air-pistol. Needless to say, therefore, sport in general is a major part of Serbia people. Good example of this intangible is Grobari's patriotic songs: http://www.youtube.com/embed/VTng4ixLGl0?wmode=opaque ( "You're the pride of Belgrade, You're the pride of my Country, You're the pride of Serbia !!" sang in unison sending shivers down the spine of those that get to witness it).
This aforementioned passion is the engine that drives the club through difficult times with Grobari pushing the cylinders of that engine. It is for that reason that Grobari are world class supporters and anything but fans and a by-product of sport's entertainment industry.
How deeply rooted and how intense is it at a club level? Consider this fact: According to the UK's own dailymail.co.uk, the fierce Belgrade derby Partizan vs Red Star, is ranked as one of the biggest rivalries in the world (#4) ahead of: Manchester United vs Liverpool; Barcelona vs Real Madrid; Olympiakos v Panathinaikos and Palmeiras v Corinthians.