Photos along with Chanting as Ethiopians Mark Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians converged in central Addis Ababa for the annual Irreecha event over the past days.
This thanksgiving celebration is celebrated by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and occurs at the completion of the country's major rainy season.
Every year, celebrants come together around sacred natural water sources to show appreciation to their divine beings for the fertile landscape that the rains have provided.
"I have participated in Irreecha for the last nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"In my view, Irreecha represents my identity, it showcases the pride and significance of my community."
Gentlemen, ladies, the elderly and the younger generation all take part, adorned in attention-grabbing clothes and jewellery.
They vocalize, move rhythmically, exchange narratives and deposit freshly cut green plants and floral arrangements in water - representing vitality, regeneration and aspiration.
International Participation
The celebration brings in people from across Ethiopia, guests come from around the world.
"I attended a year ago - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I brought along my offspring with me now," mentioned one visitor, hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. Everyone welcomes you, all attendees offers affection and says welcome."
Event Timeline
The first day of the festival occurred on the weekend in the main city. On the next day, participants travelled to a nearby town, a community close to the urban center.
Although the festival has its origins in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the larger part of the Oromo people, without consideration for their religion.
Contemporary Changes
In the past decade, the number of individuals participating in the celebration has grown significantly. This is in part thanks to the growth of social media, where numerous youth record their attire, dancing and vocal performances during the celebration.
Previous Background
In the earlier times, Irreecha was served as a stage for public dissent - the Oromo people have long complained about social exclusion.
However, the latest gathering took place calmly, with an priority on celebration, togetherness and cultural pride.
