What is Alilo and why is it important?
Alilo is a traditional Georgian Christmas procession that takes place on January 7, according to the Julian calendar. Orthodox Christians in Georgia celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ by marching through the streets of Tbilisi and other cities, singing carols and collecting donations for orphanages and the needy. Alilo is a symbol of joy, peace, and charity in Georgian culture.
The word Alilo comes from the Georgian chant “Aliluia”, which means “praise the Lord”. The participants of the procession wear colorful costumes and carry icons, crosses, flags, and balloons. They are led by priests and bishops of the Georgian Orthodox Church. The procession ends at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, where the Patriarch of Georgia blesses the marchers and the donations.
How does Alilo affect traffic in Tbilisi?
Due to the large number of people involved in Alilo, traffic in some streets of Tbilisi is restricted or diverted to allow the procession to pass. Tbilisi City Hall announced that the traffic restrictions would start at noon on January 7 and last until the end of the procession. The affected streets include:
- Rustaveli Avenue
- Freedom Square
- Pushkin Street
- Baratashvili Bridge
- Aghmashenebeli Avenue
- Saakadze Square
- Chavchavadze Avenue
- Vake Park
- Paliashvili Street
- Cholokashvili Avenue
- Heroes Square
- Tamarashvili Street
- Nutsubidze Street
- University Street
- Ilia Chavchavadze Avenue
- Turtle Lake Road
Drivers are advised to plan their routes in advance and avoid the areas where the procession will take place. Public transport will also be affected by the traffic restrictions. Some buses and minibuses will change their routes or stop operating temporarily. Metro stations will remain open, but passengers may experience delays or overcrowding.
How do people react to Alilo and the traffic restrictions?
Alilo is a popular and beloved tradition among Georgians, who see it as a way of expressing their faith and solidarity. Many people join the procession or watch it from the sidewalks, cheering and clapping. Some also offer food, drinks, or money to the marchers. Alilo is a festive and joyful occasion that brings the community together.
However, not everyone is happy about the traffic restrictions that Alilo causes. Some drivers complain that the procession disrupts their normal activities and creates congestion and chaos on the roads. They argue that Alilo should be held in a designated area or at a different time, to avoid inconveniencing the public. They also criticize the city authorities for not providing enough information or alternative routes for the drivers.
