Photos and Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Annual Thanksgiving
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired Ethiopians gathered in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the annual thanksgiving festival over the past days.
This thanksgiving celebration is observed by the Oromo people, the predominant population group, and takes place at the conclusion of the nation's primary monsoon period.
Annually, celebrants gather around revered natural water sources to show appreciation to their divine beings for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have provided.
"I have participated in the festival for the last nine years," stated 25-year-old a participant.
"In my view, Irreecha symbolizes my cultural background, it showcases the dignity and significance of my ethnic group."
Men, women, the older generation and the young all join in, adorned in striking attire and accessories.
They sing, move rhythmically, tell tales and arrange recently harvested grass and blossoms in liquid - denoting life, regeneration and hope.
International Attendance
Irreecha not only draws participants from all regions of Ethiopia, guests come from internationally.
"I attended the previous year - it was so good, so spectacular, I brought my children with me currently," mentioned one visitor, hailing from abroad.
"It's incredible. Everybody greets you, everyone offers affection and offers greetings."
Event Timeline
The opening day of the event occurred on recently in the capital. On the next day, celebrants made their way to a nearby town, a community just outside the urban center.
Although the festival has its roots in indigenous faith systems, it is now celebrated by the majority of Oromos, irrespective of their faith.
Contemporary Trends
In the recent years, the quantity of participants attending the celebration has expanded substantially. This is in part thanks to the rise of social media, where many youth capture their clothing, dancing and vocal performances during the festival.
Historical Background
In the earlier times, this event was used as a platform for anti-government protests - the ethnic group have long complained about political and economic marginalisation.
Nonetheless, this year's celebration proceeded harmoniously, with an focus on celebration, solidarity and heritage appreciation.
