Photos along with Singing as Ethiopians Mark Gratitude Festival
A multitude of colorfully attired attendees converged in the heart of the city center for the traditional gratitude celebration this weekend.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo people, the biggest ethnic group, and is held at the conclusion of the nation's major wet season.
Every year, celebrants assemble around sacred water bodies to give thanks to their creators for the lush vegetation that the precipitation have brought.
"I have participated in the festival for the last nine years," commented 25-year-old one attendee.
"For me, this event represents my identity, it demonstrates the pride and greatness of my community."
Males, women, the elderly and the young all join in, adorned in eye-catching attire and jewellery.
They vocalize, dance, tell tales and place newly gathered green plants and blossoms in the water - denoting life, renewal and hope.
International Attendance
The celebration not only draws individuals from across Ethiopia, guests fly in from globally.
"I attended a year ago - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought along my kids with me this year," mentioned one visitor, originating from abroad.
"It's incredible. All people welcomes you, everyone offers affection and says welcome."
Event Schedule
The initial day of the celebration took place on Saturday in the capital. On the following day, celebrants journeyed to a provincial location, a settlement just outside the urban center.
Even though this celebration has its foundations in indigenous faith systems, it is now practiced by the majority of the community, regardless of their faith.
Contemporary Changes
In the recent years, the quantity of individuals participating in the event has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the rise of social media, where various younger generation document their clothing, dance moves and musical expressions during the celebration.
Previous Context
In the previous years, the festival was functioned as a platform for public dissent - the Oromo community have consistently raised issues about systemic disadvantages.
Nonetheless, this year's celebration unfolded peacefully, with an priority on joy, unity and heritage appreciation.
