Snapshots as well as Chanting as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Gratitude Festival
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired Ethiopians assembled in central the city center for the annual gratitude celebration during recent days.
This thanksgiving celebration is observed by the Oromo people, the biggest ethnic group, and is held at the end of the land's main wet season.
Each year, participants assemble around revered rivers and lakes to express gratitude to their creators for the fertile landscape that the precipitation have brought.
"I've been celebrating this celebration for the last nine years," stated 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"To me, this event embodies my cultural background, it demonstrates the dignity and greatness of my ethnic group."
Men, ladies, the older generation and the youth all take part, decorated in striking garments and ornaments.
They vocalize, dance, share stories and deposit freshly cut green plants and floral arrangements in water - symbolizing vitality, regeneration and aspiration.
Global Presence
This festival does not only attract individuals from across Ethiopia, attendees fly in from around the world.
"I came the previous year - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I brought my children with me now," expressed Claire, hailing from abroad.
"It is amazing. All people greets you, each person wants to give you a kiss and expresses hospitality."
Celebration Timeline
The first day of the celebration took place on recently in the capital. On the next day, festival-goers made their way to a nearby town, a community near the urban center.
Even though Irreecha has its roots in native spiritual practices, it is now practiced by the bulk of the Oromo people, regardless of their faith.
Contemporary Trends
In the past decade, the quantity of individuals attending the celebration has increased dramatically. This is in part thanks to the expansion of online networks, where many younger generation document their attire, traditional dances and musical expressions during the gathering.
Previous Significance
In the previous years, this event was used as a platform for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have consistently raised issues about social exclusion.
However, the latest gathering unfolded peacefully, with an priority on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.
