In the heart of Bessarabia, the village of Krinichne becomes an epicenter of living Bulgarian cultural memory, where every baked loaf tells a story of continuity and identity. The documentary project "Our Bread" presents a unique look at preserving national traditions among Ukrainian Bulgarians.
Masterful Maria, whose hands knead the dough with almost ritual precision, is a central figure in this narrative. Her bread preparation is accompanied by songs and prayers that transform the culinary process into a spiritual experience. Silence and concentration are her faithful companions during work.
The report by Ukrainian television "Suspilne Movlennia" emphasizes the multilayered nature of cultural heritage. Traditional elements such as the horo dance, Christmas carols, and specific culinary rituals are presented as living testimonies of preserved identity.
People over 70 and young people pass on knowledge, singing together songs dedicated to different life stages – from maidenhood to wedding. The corovai bread and accompanying dishes like sarmi become symbols of cultural continuity.
The historical context reveals that Bulgarians settled in the region in 1813, when 153 families from the Shumen and Varna regions founded the village. Today, the community lives in harmony, combining Bulgarian and Ukrainian cultural elements.
Special emphasis is placed on the right of national communities to preserve their identity. Through songs, rituals, and culinary traditions, Bulgarians in Krinichne demonstrate their resilience and ability to transmit cultural heritage between generations.
The geographical location of the village – in the southern part of the Odessa region, near Lake Yalpug, further emphasizes the uniqueness of this cultural enclave. Every baked loaf, every sung song is part of a living chronicle that continues to be written.
The program hosts emphasize that identity is not static, but a dynamic system that develops and enriches itself through dialogue, mutual respect, and preservation of authentic traditions.