Photos along with Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Gratitude Festival
A multitude of colorfully attired Ethiopians assembled in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the yearly thanksgiving festival over the past days.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and occurs at the conclusion of the nation's main rainy season.
Every year, festival-goers gather around holy rivers and lakes to express gratitude to their higher powers for the greenery that the rains have provided.
"I have participated in Irreecha for the previous nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old one attendee.
"In my view, this event symbolizes my cultural background, it reflects the pride and greatness of my community."
Men, ladies, the older generation and the younger generation all participate, decorated in eye-catching garments and accessories.
They chant, perform traditional dances, share stories and arrange recently harvested grass and floral arrangements in water - representing existence, renewal and optimism.
Global Participation
This festival not only draws people from throughout the country, attendees fly in from globally.
"I came the previous year - it was wonderful, so beautiful, I invited my kids with me this year," expressed Claire, hailing from abroad.
"It's incredible. Everybody greets you, all attendees wants to give you a kiss and says welcome."
Festival Program
The first day of the event occurred on Saturday in the capital. On the following day, festival-goers journeyed to a provincial location, a community just outside the main city.
While Irreecha has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now celebrated by the majority of the Oromo people, irrespective of their faith.
Contemporary Developments
In the last ten years, the quantity of participants attending the celebration has expanded substantially. This is partially because of the expansion of social media, where numerous youth record their attire, dancing and singing during the festival.
Past Background
In the previous years, the festival was used as a platform for political demonstrations - the Oromo community have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation.
Nonetheless, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on joy, unity and cultural pride.
