[Video transcript]

A centuries-old tradition in the Carpathian Mountains in western Ukraine: all-male carol singing, or Koliada. 

The ritual begins on Christmas day in the village of Kryvorivnia. It continues for 12 days.

The carolers are a major attraction here.

But, like everything in Ukraine, the ongoingwaris taking a toll on this tradition as well.

Many men from the region have joined the army and are on the frontlines. It’s now mainly old men and very young ones filling the ranks of the caroling groups — like 18-year-old Rostyslav. 

(Rostyslav) 
"There aren’t many men left who used to go carol singing with us. Some of them are missing, some of them are at the frontline. Our group was much bigger before the war."

Despite the festive spirits, the mood is somber among the tight-knit community this year.

Ivan Zelenchuk is one of the region’s best-known koliada singers.

(Ivan Zelenchuk) 
"My soul hurts. Our men are on the frontline, they ask us to keep on caroling because we are protecting them. But it's very painful because they are fighting, they could die any moment."

The frontline is over a thousand kilometers away to the east. This region is better known for its ski resorts. Air raid alerts and Russian strikes are a rarity here.

But the war doesn’t feel so distant anymore. 

The neighboring town of Verkhovyna holds an official tribute to 19-year Vasyl Boychuk, killed on the frontline.

His remains are being brought home after nearly two years. The pain is unbearable for his family. 

Another Vasyl — a carol singer for 35 years. He gave it up when he joined the army two years ago and headed to the frontline. He’s back home for the holidays.

The former philologist says Koliada, or caroling, is a powerful tool in these tough times.

(Vasyl)
"This is a unique pillar of musical culture and poetry. It's great because it comes from the soul. Somebody once said Koliada is a traditional Hutsul prayer. Prayer strengthens the human spirit, and that's what Koliada does as well."

Strength is what everyone needs as the carol singers visit homes — almost each one grappling with grief.

Maria'’s son has been missing on the frontlines. He was a caroler himself. She believes he's still alive.

(Maria) 
"He went caroling for 16 years. He loved it very much and he prepared for it. I hope that he will sing carols again. We believe, we hope and we're waiting for him."

The singing continues over dinner. The fervent unspoken prayer on everyone's lips is for the grueling war to end.