ADDIS MAYA

አዲስ አበባ: Addis Abeba

The capital of Ethiopia, is located in the highlands next to the Great Rift Valley.

📷📸

Irreechaa / Irreessa- means ‘green and fresh grass’ which is symbolizes fertility and flourishing life in Oromo tradition.

The Irreecha Birra marked the end of Ganna (the rainy season) and the beginning of harvest season. Celebrated by gathering on the river banks and the shores of lakes and give thanks to Waaqaa (God) for all his bounty and pray for Nagaa (peace) and Araara (reconciliation) among humans and with God.

The Irreecha commemorates the arrival of Birraa (Spring), 1st Sunday of the last week of September or the 1st Sunday of the 1st week of October according to the Gadaa lunar calendar.

During this ritual, the worshipers carry green grass and flowers (Adey Ababa) placing them in the water to give thanks to Waaqaa for good fortune and prosperity over the coming year. The Hayyuu (elders, Wisemen) officiated by thanking God and blessing the nation as their ancestors did.

Locals dress in traditional costumes and observe Irreecha with dancing and singing, It brings people closer to each as family relationships suffer during winter rain as they can't visit each other.

There are two types of Irreecha. 1- Irreecha Malkaa (Irreecha by a river (water body) also called Irreecha Birraa (Irreecha in the spring season).
2- Irreecha Tuulluu (Irreecha on a mountain) also called Irreecha Bonaa (Irreecha in autumn, which is a dry season in Oromia)

Irrechaa is commonly celebrated in three places

1. Finfine (Addis Ababa ) celebrated at Irrecha park at Meskel Square (A day before Horra Harsedii)
2. Bishoftu (Lake Harsadi) - celebrated at Hora River (Last Sunday of September)- Main event.
3. Melka Atete (Burayu)- celebrated at the Gefersa river (The week after Horra Harsedii)
📷
Follow us |