Baga bagee bara haaraa geessan
Baga bagee bara haaraa geessan is the Oromo phrase for Happy New Year.
Meaning: Happy New Year (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase contains bara haaraa, which means 'new year'. Specifically, bara means 'year' and haaraa means 'new'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form Baga bagee bara haaraa geessan is the plural or polite form. It is used when you are addressing a group of people or when you want to show respect to a single individual.
When do people say it?
When someone offers this greeting, a common response is Galatoomaa, isinis!, which means 'Thank you, you too!'
Did you know?
- Oromo greetings for new cycles often emphasize the act of 'reaching' or 'arriving' at a destination, which is reflected in the verb structure used in this greeting.
- In Oromo culture, the new year transition is closely linked to the blooming of the greenery after the autumn rains.
- In Oromo culture, celebrating the arrival of a new year often involves 'Irreecha', a thanksgiving festival that marks the transition of seasons and the renewal of life.
Example conversation
Ayantu and Caala meet for the first time in the new year.
- AyantuCaala, Baga bagee bara haaraa geessan!Caala, Happy New Year!
- CaalaGalatoomi, Ayantu. Isinis baga geessan!Thank you, Ayantu. Happy New Year to you too!
- AyantuBara haaraa gaarii isiniif haa ta'u.May the new year be good for you.
- CaalaGalatoomi, isiniifis akkasuma.Thank you, the same to you.
