Photos as well as Singing as Ethiopian Citizens Observe Annual Thanksgiving
Countless individuals of vibrantly dressed Ethiopians converged in the heart of Ethiopia's capital for the annual thanksgiving festival over the past days.
The festival is celebrated by the Oromo, the predominant ethnic group, and is held at the end of the country's primary rainy season.
Each year, festival-goers gather around sacred natural water sources to give thanks to their divine beings for the lush vegetation that the rainy season have delivered.
"I've been celebrating this celebration for the past nine years," commented twenty-five-year-old a participant.
"In my view, the celebration symbolizes my heritage, it reflects the dignity and greatness of my people."
Males, ladies, the older generation and the youth all take part, adorned in attention-grabbing clothes and accessories.
They chant, move rhythmically, exchange narratives and arrange newly gathered foliage and blossoms in the water - denoting existence, regeneration and hope.
Worldwide Attendance
This festival not only draws participants from throughout the country, guests fly in from globally.
"I visited the previous year - the experience was amazing, so magnificent, I brought my offspring with me currently," expressed one visitor, originating from Northern Ireland.
"It's incredible. Everybody welcomes you, each person shows warmth and offers greetings."
Festival Timeline
The opening day of the celebration was held on Saturday in Addis Ababa. On the following day, celebrants journeyed to a nearby town, a small town close to the capital.
Even though this celebration has its foundations in native spiritual practices, it is now observed by the majority of the community, irrespective of their belief system.
Modern Trends
In the last ten years, the quantity of individuals joining the event has grown significantly. This is partially because of the growth of digital platforms, where numerous young people capture their clothing, traditional dances and musical expressions during the celebration.
Historical Significance
In the past, the festival was functioned as a platform for anti-government protests - the ethnic group have historically expressed concerns about systemic disadvantages.
However, the latest gathering proceeded harmoniously, with an focus on happiness, unity and heritage appreciation.
