Countless individuals of colorfully attired attendees converged in the heart of Addis Ababa for the yearly thanksgiving festival during recent days.
The festival is observed by the Oromo people, Ethiopia's largest community, and is held at the end of the land's main monsoon period.
Each year, celebrants gather around revered water bodies to show appreciation to their creators for the lush vegetation that the rains have provided.
"I have participated in the festival for the previous nine years," mentioned 25-year-old one attendee.
"To me, this event embodies my identity, it reflects the honor and importance of my community."
Men, women, the senior citizens and the younger generation all join in, decorated in attention-grabbing clothes and jewellery.
They chant, move rhythmically, exchange narratives and deposit freshly cut grass and floral arrangements in liquid - denoting existence, renewal and hope.
International Presence
Irreecha brings in individuals from across Ethiopia, guests come from globally.
"I came a year ago - it was so good, so magnificent, I brought along my offspring with me now," mentioned Claire, hailing from Belfast in Northern Ireland.
"It's wonderful. Everybody wants to say hello, everyone wants to give you a kiss and says welcome."
Event Schedule
The first day of the festival occurred on Saturday in the capital. On Sunday, participants journeyed to Bishoftu, a small town just outside the main city.
While the festival has its roots in traditional beliefs, it is now practiced by the majority of the community, regardless of their faith.
Modern Trends
In the recent years, the number of individuals attending the festival has grown significantly. This is partly due to the growth of digital platforms, where various youth record their attire, traditional dances and singing during the celebration.
Historical Context
In the past, the festival was functioned as a platform for public dissent - the ethnic group have long complained about social exclusion.
Nonetheless, the latest gathering unfolded peacefully, with an focus on joy, togetherness and cultural pride.
