Snapshots as well as Chanting as People of Ethiopia Observe Thanksgiving
A multitude of brightly clothed participants converged in central the city center for the traditional thanksgiving festival over the past days.
Irreecha is observed by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest community, and takes place at the conclusion of the nation's major wet season.
Each year, celebrants assemble around revered rivers and lakes to show appreciation to their higher powers for the lush vegetation that the precipitation have brought.
"I have participated in the festival for the last nine years," mentioned twenty-five-year-old one attendee.
"To me, Irreecha symbolizes my cultural background, it demonstrates the pride and significance of my community."
Gentlemen, females, the elderly and the younger generation all participate, adorned in striking clothes and jewellery.
They vocalize, perform traditional dances, exchange narratives and arrange freshly cut foliage and floral arrangements in water - symbolizing life, regeneration and optimism.
Global Attendance
This festival brings in people from all regions of Ethiopia, guests travel from internationally.
"I attended the previous year - the experience was amazing, so spectacular, I brought my offspring with me currently," expressed an international guest, from abroad.
"It is amazing. Everyone wants to say hello, each person offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Festival Timeline
The initial day of the celebration occurred on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the following day, celebrants journeyed to a provincial location, a small town just outside the urban center.
Although Irreecha has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now observed by the majority of Oromos, irrespective of their religion.
Recent Developments
In the recent years, the quantity of individuals joining the festival has grown significantly. This is partly due to the growth of social media, where numerous young people capture their clothing, traditional dances and vocal performances during the celebration.
Past Context
In the previous years, this event was functioned as a venue for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have consistently raised issues about political and economic marginalisation.
Nevertheless, the recent event proceeded harmoniously, with an focus on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.
