Photos as well as Singing as Ethiopian Citizens Celebrate Annual Thanksgiving
A multitude of brightly clothed participants assembled in downtown Ethiopia's capital for the yearly gratitude celebration during recent days.
This thanksgiving celebration is honored by the Oromo, Ethiopia's largest community, and is held at the completion of the nation's major monsoon period.
Every year, festival-goers assemble around sacred water bodies to give thanks to their higher powers for the greenery that the precipitation have provided.
"I've attended this celebration for the previous nine years," commented young adult Moata Abdulmajid.
"In my view, the celebration represents my heritage, it showcases the honor and significance of my community."
Males, ladies, the older generation and the youth all take part, decorated in striking garments and jewellery.
They chant, dance, exchange narratives and place newly gathered green plants and flowers in liquid - representing life, regeneration and optimism.
Global Presence
The celebration does not only attract participants from all regions of Ethiopia, attendees fly in from globally.
"I attended the previous year - it was so good, so spectacular, I invited my offspring with me currently," mentioned an international guest, from abroad.
"It's wonderful. Everybody wants to say hello, each person wants to give you a kiss and expresses hospitality."
Festival Timeline
The initial day of the celebration occurred on recently in the main city. On the next day, festival-goers made their way to a provincial location, a community just outside the capital.
Although this celebration has its roots in indigenous faith systems, it is now celebrated by the larger part of Oromos, irrespective of their faith.
Recent Trends
In the recent years, the figure of individuals joining the celebration has grown significantly. This is partly due to the growth of online networks, where various young people document their attire, dance moves and vocal performances during the festival.
Past Context
In the previous years, this event was served as a stage for political demonstrations - the Oromo people have historically expressed concerns about political and economic marginalisation.
However, this year's celebration unfolded peacefully, with an priority on celebration, togetherness and cultural pride.
