Snapshots along with Melodies as Ethiopians Observe Gratitude Festival
Countless individuals of brightly clothed participants gathered in central Ethiopia's capital for the traditional thanksgiving festival over the past days.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo community, the biggest population group, and takes place at the end of the land's major monsoon period.
Every year, participants come together around sacred natural water sources to give thanks to their creators for the fertile landscape that the precipitation have delivered.
"I have participated in the festival for the past nine years," mentioned 25-year-old one attendee.
"For me, this event symbolizes my heritage, it reflects the dignity and significance of my people."
Men, females, the elderly and the youth all take part, adorned in attention-grabbing clothes and jewellery.
They chant, dance, exchange narratives and arrange freshly cut grass and floral arrangements in water - representing vitality, regeneration and aspiration.
Global Participation
Irreecha brings in individuals from throughout the country, attendees travel from internationally.
"I visited last year - the experience was amazing, so beautiful, I invited my kids with me now," said an international guest, from Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. Everyone wants to say hello, everyone shows warmth and offers greetings."
Festival Program
The initial day of the festival took place on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the next day, festival-goers made their way to a nearby town, a settlement near the main city.
Although this celebration has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now celebrated by the larger part of the community, irrespective of their belief system.
Recent Trends
In the recent years, the quantity of participants participating in the celebration has increased dramatically. This is partly due to the expansion of online networks, where numerous young people record their outfits, dance moves and singing during the celebration.
Previous Significance
In the past, Irreecha was served as a stage for anti-government protests - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
Nonetheless, the recent event proceeded harmoniously, with an emphasis on celebration, unity and cultural pride.
