Enkutatash is a joyous Ethiopian holiday celebrated on the 1st of September each year. It marks the arrival of the New Year in the Ethiopian calendar. If you’d like to wish someone a happy Enkutatash, this guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to express your greetings. Regional variations in Ethiopia may exist, but we’ll primarily focus on the standard Amharic greetings. So, let’s explore the various ways to say “Happy Enkutatash” and spread joy to your Ethiopian friends and loved ones!
Table of Contents
Formal Greetings:
Formal greetings are suitable for professional settings, or when addressing someone with whom you have a respectful or formal relationship.
1. Melkam Enkutatash!
This is the most common formal greeting used to wish someone a happy Enkutatash. “Melkam” means “happy” and “Enkutatash” refers to the New Year in Amharic.
Example: As a manager, you might say, “Melkam Enkutatash to all our employees! May the New Year bring prosperity and success for everyone.”
2. Enkutatash Betikemk’em!
This phrase can be translated as “Wishing you a happy Enkutatash.” It is a more direct way to greet and express your well wishes for the New Year.
Example: When sending an official email, you could write, “Dear colleagues, Enkutatash Betikemk’em! I hope this New Year brings you joy, good health, and fulfillment.”
Informal Greetings:
Informal greetings are usually used among family, friends, or close acquaintances. They have a warmer and more relaxed tone.
1. Melkam Enkutatashch!
This is the informal version of “Melkam Enkutatash.” It includes the suffix “-ch,” which adds familiarity and intimacy to the greeting.
Example: To wish your best friend a happy Enkutatash, you might say, “Melkam Enkutatashch! Let’s celebrate the New Year together and make unforgettable memories!”
2. Enkuwan Des! Chuhet Alegn!
This phrase means “Happy New Year! Be blessed!” It emphasizes well wishes and blessings for the year ahead in a more casual manner.
Example: Greeting your family during a festive dinner, you could say, “Enkuwan Des! Chuhet Alegn! May this New Year bring us all happiness, love, and togetherness.”
Other Expressions:
Here are a few additional greetings and expressions that can be used during Enkutatash:
1. Tsome Gena Bota!
This phrase translates to “Enjoy your holiday.” It’s a way to express your hope that someone has a joyful and pleasant Enkutatash celebration.
2. Mesele Be’Emebete Fiker!
Meaning “Start the year with love,” this expression encourages individuals to embrace the New Year with affection, kindness, and compassion.
3. Mihret New Ye’Enkutatash Be’al!
Translating to “Have a blessed New Year’s Day,” this greeting focuses on invoking blessings and positive energy on the first day of Enkutatash.
Conclusion
Celebrating Enkutatash is a beautiful tradition filled with warmth, joy, and hope. Now armed with these formal and informal greetings, you’ll be able to convey your heartfelt wishes to Ethiopian friends, colleagues, and loved ones during this festive season. Remember to adapt the greetings based on your relationship with the recipient and always greet with sincerity and enthusiasm. Let’s spread happiness and welcome the new year with open arms. Melkam Enkutatash!
