Selfies as well as Singing as Ethiopians Observe Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of brightly clothed Ethiopians converged in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the yearly gratitude celebration over the past days.
The festival is observed by the Oromo, the biggest ethnic group, and takes place at the conclusion of the land's main rainy season.
Annually, festival-goers assemble around holy water bodies to express gratitude to their higher powers for the greenery that the precipitation have provided.
"I've attended Irreecha for the previous nine years," stated 25-year-old one attendee.
"In my view, Irreecha symbolizes my identity, it demonstrates the honor and importance of my ethnic group."
Men, ladies, the older generation and the younger generation all participate, decorated in attention-grabbing clothes and jewellery.
They vocalize, dance, tell tales and place freshly cut grass and blossoms in liquid - representing existence, rebirth and aspiration.
International Participation
Irreecha does not only attract participants from throughout the country, attendees come from globally.
"I came the previous year - it was wonderful, so beautiful, I invited my offspring with me now," said an international guest, hailing from Northern Ireland.
"It's wonderful. All people welcomes you, everyone offers affection and expresses hospitality."
Event Program
The first day of the celebration took place on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the following day, celebrants travelled to a provincial location, a community near the capital.
Although Irreecha has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now celebrated by the majority of Oromos, regardless of their religion.
Contemporary Developments
In the last ten years, the quantity of individuals participating in the celebration has increased dramatically. This is partly due to the rise of digital platforms, where numerous youth capture their attire, dance moves and musical expressions during the festival.
Past Context
In the past, the festival was functioned as a venue for anti-government protests - the Oromo community have historically expressed concerns about systemic disadvantages.
Nevertheless, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an focus on happiness, togetherness and heritage appreciation.
