Selfies and Singing as Ethiopians Mark Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of vibrantly dressed attendees converged in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the traditional gratitude celebration over the past days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo, the predominant ethnic group, and takes place at the completion of the country's main monsoon period.
Every year, participants gather around revered water bodies to express gratitude to their higher powers for the lush vegetation that the precipitation have provided.
"I've been celebrating this celebration for the past nine years," commented young adult Moata Abdulmajid.
"To me, this event embodies my cultural background, it showcases the dignity and significance of my ethnic group."
Gentlemen, females, the senior citizens and the youth all take part, decorated in eye-catching attire and accessories.
They sing, perform traditional dances, share stories and place newly gathered grass and flowers in the water - denoting vitality, renewal and optimism.
Worldwide Participation
Irreecha not only draws participants from throughout the country, visitors fly in from around the world.
"I visited last year - the experience was amazing, so magnificent, I brought my offspring with me this year," said one visitor, originating from abroad.
"It is amazing. Everyone wants to say hello, all attendees shows warmth and offers greetings."
Event Timeline
The initial day of the celebration occurred on recently in Addis Ababa. On Sunday, celebrants made their way to a provincial location, a small town close to the main city.
Even though the festival has its origins in indigenous faith systems, it is now observed by the bulk of the Oromo people, regardless of their religion.
Recent Developments
In the recent years, the quantity of people attending the festival has increased dramatically. This is partially because of the expansion of social media, where many young people record their clothing, dance moves and singing during the celebration.
Previous Significance
In the earlier times, the festival was used as a venue for anti-government protests - the ethnic group have long complained about systemic disadvantages.
Nonetheless, the recent event took place calmly, with an emphasis on joy, unity and heritage appreciation.
