We must all be warriors, each in his place: Vakarchuk and Okean Elzy in Odesa

The presentation of the book "Ocean Elzy. 30 years in photos and memories".

According to an Intent correspondent, the event brought together fans of the legendary Ukrainian band and admirers of its long history.

The event was attended by the leader of "Okean Elzy" Svyatoslav Vakarchuk. He shared his memories of the band's career, answered guests' questions and talked to the audience.

The musician said that seven years before the full-scale invasion began, he had been actively practicing yoga almost every day. His last classes were on February 22-24, 2022. The very next day, the war broke out, and since then, according to Vakarchuk, he has never returned to yoga. Not because he was disappointed or lost interest in it, but because he simply stopped feeling the need for that energy.

Instead, he started doing more physically active sports - running, swimming, cycling, weight training. Now, as the artist says, it is important for him not to hold back, but rather to channel his inner strength into fighting.

"We all have to be warriors, each in his place," Vakarchuk emphasized. He added that the main thing now is to be as effective as possible and support the Ukrainian army. Someone is at the front, someone is in the rear, working, teaching children, creating jobs or simply paying taxes. And he, for his part, regularly travels to the front line to give performances to raise the morale of the soldiers. As well as during concerts to raise funds for the military.

"The main thing is to do something. And to do it well and with dedication," said the artist.

The evening was held in a warm atmosphere, complemented by stories and music, and beautiful photos were taken by Intent's photojournalist.

Ірина Глухова