Photos and Melodies as Ethiopian Citizens Celebrate Gratitude Festival
Countless individuals of brightly clothed Ethiopians converged in downtown Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha event during recent days.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo community, the predominant ethnic group, and is held at the conclusion of the nation's major wet season.
Every year, celebrants come together around holy water bodies to express gratitude to their divine beings for the lush vegetation that the precipitation have delivered.
"I've been celebrating this celebration for the past nine years," stated 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"To me, this event embodies my cultural background, it reflects the honor and importance of my community."
Men, ladies, the senior citizens and the youth all take part, ornamented in attention-grabbing clothes and ornaments.
They vocalize, dance, share stories and place recently harvested foliage and blossoms in the water - symbolizing life, renewal and optimism.
International Attendance
Irreecha does not only attract individuals from all regions of Ethiopia, guests come from internationally.
"I came a year ago - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought along my children with me this year," expressed Claire, hailing from abroad.
"It's incredible. All people welcomes you, each person offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Event Program
The initial day of the festival took place on recently in the main city. On Sunday, celebrants travelled to Bishoftu, a community near the main city.
Although this celebration has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now celebrated by the bulk of Oromos, irrespective of their religion.
Modern Developments
In the last ten years, the quantity of individuals joining the festival has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the growth of digital platforms, where numerous younger generation document their attire, dance moves and singing during the celebration.
Past Significance
In the previous years, Irreecha was functioned as a stage for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have consistently raised issues about social exclusion.
However, the recent event took place calmly, with an emphasis on celebration, solidarity and cultural pride.
