As Ethiopia ushers in its unique New Year, known as “Enkutatash,” celebrated artists have chosen to mark the occasion with intimate home celebrations. This year, the spotlight falls on the personal observances of well-known figures in the Ethiopian music industry: Amleset, Selam, Yigerem, and Danawit.
The holiday, which typically falls on September 11th (or September 12th during a leap year), is one of the most significant celebrations in the Ethiopian calendar. This year, these artists have opened a window into their private lives, showing how they honor this important tradition.
Amleset, Selam, Yigerem, and Danawit, each respected for their contributions to Ethiopian music, have been reported to be celebrating the New Year in the comfort of their own homes. This approach aligns with the holiday’s traditional emphasis on family gatherings and home-based celebrations.
While public performances and large gatherings are often part of an artist’s life, this home-based celebration underscores the personal and cultural significance of Enkutatash. It offers fans a glimpse into the more intimate side of these public figures, as they engage in traditional New Year customs such as sharing meals with loved ones, lighting bonfires, or exchanging gifts.
This news has resonated with many Ethiopians, both at home and in the diaspora, who find themselves similarly celebrating in more personal settings. It serves as a reminder of the unifying power of cultural traditions, even when observed individually or in small groups.
As Ethiopia steps into its new year, the home celebrations of these beloved artists reflect the broader national mood of hope, renewal, and cultural pride that characterizes this unique holiday.
