03 Aug Celebrate Ashenda in Tigray
Ashenda is a traditional celebration that takes place in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. It is a cultural festival that is primarily celebrated by the Tigrayan women and girls.
Ashenda usually occurs in August, lasting for three days. During this time, women and girls dress up in traditional Tigrayan clothing, which includes colorful dresses, jewelry, and hairstyles. The festival is a time for them to showcase their beauty and elegance.
The celebration involves various activities, including singing, dancing, and playing traditional musical instruments such as the kirar (a string instrument) and the drum. Women and girls form circles and dance together, performing traditional Tigrayan dances. The dances are often accompanied by singing and clapping.
One of the highlights of the Ashenda celebration is the Hidar Zoma, a procession where women and girls walk through the streets, singing and dancing. They visit different neighborhoods, spreading joy and happiness. People in the community come out to watch and join in the festivities.
During Ashenda, traditional food and drinks are also prepared and shared among the participants. The food typically includes injera (a sourdough flatbread) with various stews and sauces. Traditional drinks like tella (a local beer) and tej (honey wine) are also served.
Ashenda is not only a time for celebration but also a time for young girls to learn about their cultural heritage and traditions. It is an opportunity for them to bond with their peers and elders, as well as to pass down traditional knowledge and values.
Overall, Ashenda is a vibrant and joyful celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Tigray region in Ethiopia. It is a time for women and girls to come together, celebrate their beauty, and express their cultural identity.