Photos as well as Singing as People of Ethiopia Mark Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed participants assembled in central Addis Ababa for the traditional thanksgiving festival over the past days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo community, the biggest ethnic group, and occurs at the completion of the country's major rainy season.
Annually, festival-goers gather around revered rivers and lakes to give thanks to their divine beings for the greenery that the rainy season have brought.
"I've attended the festival for the previous nine years," stated young adult Moata Abdulmajid.
"To me, this event symbolizes my heritage, it demonstrates the dignity and greatness of my community."
Males, ladies, the older generation and the younger generation all take part, adorned in striking attire and accessories.
They vocalize, perform traditional dances, share stories and arrange freshly cut grass and flowers in the water - denoting existence, renewal and aspiration.
International Presence
Irreecha brings in people from across Ethiopia, visitors fly in from globally.
"I came a year ago - it was so good, so spectacular, I invited my children with me currently," said an international guest, hailing from abroad.
"It's wonderful. Everybody welcomes you, everyone offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Event Timeline
The opening day of the festival took place on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, participants travelled to a nearby town, a community close to the capital.
Although this celebration has its origins in native spiritual practices, it is now celebrated by the majority of the community, regardless of their faith.
Contemporary Trends
In the recent years, the number of people attending the festival has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the growth of social media, where many young people capture their clothing, traditional dances and singing during the gathering.
Historical Context
In the earlier times, this event was used as a platform for political demonstrations - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about systemic disadvantages.
Nevertheless, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an priority on happiness, togetherness and heritage appreciation.
