Photos along with Chanting as Ethiopians Mark Gratitude Festival
Tens of thousands of brightly clothed Ethiopians gathered in the heart of Addis Ababa for the yearly gratitude celebration during recent days.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo community, Ethiopia's largest population group, and is held at the end of the land's major rainy season.
Annually, participants come together around sacred rivers and lakes to express gratitude to their divine beings for the fertile landscape that the rainy season have provided.
"I've been celebrating Irreecha for the previous nine years," commented 25-year-old a participant.
"For me, the celebration represents my cultural background, it reflects the dignity and significance of my people."
Gentlemen, women, the elderly and the young all take part, adorned in striking attire and accessories.
They vocalize, move rhythmically, tell tales and place newly gathered green plants and blossoms in water - representing existence, rebirth and hope.
International Presence
Irreecha does not only attract people from throughout the country, attendees fly in from internationally.
"I attended the previous year - it was wonderful, so magnificent, I invited my kids with me this year," mentioned an international guest, originating from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It's wonderful. Everyone greets you, everyone shows warmth and says welcome."
Festival Schedule
The opening day of the celebration occurred on the weekend in the capital. On Sunday, participants travelled to Bishoftu, a community just outside the capital.
Even though this celebration has its roots in native spiritual practices, it is now observed by the larger part of the Oromo people, regardless of their belief system.
Modern Changes
In the recent years, the figure of people attending the event has expanded substantially. This is partly due to the rise of digital platforms, where many younger generation record their outfits, traditional dances and musical expressions during the gathering.
Past Background
In the previous years, this event was served as a venue for anti-government protests - the ethnic group have long complained about systemic disadvantages.
However, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on celebration, togetherness and cultural pride.
