Selfies as well as Chanting as People of Ethiopia Mark Thanksgiving
Tens of thousands of colorfully attired participants assembled in downtown Addis Ababa for the yearly gratitude celebration this weekend.
This thanksgiving celebration is observed by the Oromo people, the biggest community, and occurs at the completion of the country's primary monsoon period.
Every year, celebrants assemble around holy natural water sources to show appreciation to their divine beings for the lush vegetation that the rainy season have delivered.
"I've been celebrating Irreecha for the previous nine years," stated 25-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"In my view, Irreecha embodies my heritage, it demonstrates the honor and greatness of my community."
Gentlemen, females, the senior citizens and the young all participate, ornamented in striking clothes and ornaments.
They chant, move rhythmically, exchange narratives and deposit freshly cut grass and floral arrangements in the water - denoting vitality, rebirth and aspiration.
Global Participation
This festival does not only attract individuals from throughout the country, attendees fly in from internationally.
"I visited last year - it was wonderful, so magnificent, I invited my offspring with me currently," mentioned an international guest, hailing from abroad.
"It's wonderful. All people greets you, everyone shows warmth and says welcome."
Celebration Program
The initial day of the celebration occurred on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the next day, celebrants made their way to a provincial location, a small town just outside the urban center.
While Irreecha has its origins in indigenous faith systems, it is now celebrated by the majority of the community, irrespective of their religion.
Contemporary Trends
In the recent years, the figure of people attending the celebration has increased dramatically. This is partly due to the growth of social media, where many younger generation capture their outfits, dance moves and musical expressions during the gathering.
Past Significance
In the earlier times, this event was functioned as a platform for public dissent - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about social exclusion.
Nonetheless, the recent event proceeded harmoniously, with an focus on joy, unity and cultural pride.
