Fichee Chambalaalla, Sidama people’s New Year has just been marked for ages. Even if the due to COVID 19 pandemic Sidama people have not celebrated it at Gudumalle square as usual, luncheons and dinner parties were thrown at household level in Sidama.
Before Covid-19 eclipsed the vibe this Intangible Cultural Heritage of UNESCO was celebrated colorfully every year accentuated by the peoples’ cultural activities and ceremonies.
Buurisame is one of the holiday’s catchy events.
Fiche Chambalaalla is a gratitude expressing way of married Sidama women who visit parents and relatives annually. A sidama woman brings “to the family upon her visit. Buurisame” is a mouthwatering dish made from false banana powder, milk and butter. The food is not only for the consumption of the family. It is shared among neighbors. It is still a big component of Chambalaalla festivity in addition to music and dance.
When Fiche Chambalaalla comes every year, Sidama elders use the event to transfer down their customs and values for the new generation. Women in particular, see to it that the preparation of Buurisame is passed down to their daughters and other girls in their respective villages.
The Ethiopian Herald Sunday Edition 24/2020
BY GENET FEKADE
