Selfies as well as Chanting as People of Ethiopia Observe Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of colorfully attired participants assembled in central Ethiopia's capital for the yearly thanksgiving festival over the past days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo people, Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, and is held at the end of the country's main monsoon period.
Each year, festival-goers come together around sacred rivers and lakes to show appreciation to their creators for the lush vegetation that the rainy season have brought.
"I've attended Irreecha for the past nine years," commented twenty-five-year-old Moata Abdulmajid.
"To me, this event symbolizes my cultural background, it reflects the dignity and greatness of my people."
Men, females, the older generation and the youth all take part, ornamented in striking garments and accessories.
They chant, dance, share stories and arrange freshly cut green plants and blossoms in liquid - symbolizing existence, rebirth and optimism.
Worldwide Participation
This festival brings in participants from throughout the country, attendees fly in from internationally.
"I attended last year - it was so good, so magnificent, I invited my kids with me currently," said one visitor, originating from abroad.
"It is amazing. Everybody greets you, everyone wants to give you a kiss and says welcome."
Festival Program
The opening day of the event was held on recently in Addis Ababa. On the next day, festival-goers journeyed to a nearby town, a settlement close to the main city.
Although this celebration has its origins in indigenous faith systems, it is now celebrated by the majority of the Oromo people, without consideration for their belief system.
Recent Changes
In the past decade, the number of individuals attending the festival has increased dramatically. This is partly due to the growth of social media, where many younger generation document their outfits, dancing and singing during the festival.
Past Context
In the previous years, Irreecha was functioned as a platform for public dissent - the Oromo people have consistently raised issues about social exclusion.
However, the recent event unfolded peacefully, with an emphasis on joy, unity and heritage appreciation.
