The annual Umkhosi Womhlanga ceremony, also known as the Reed Dance is growing from strength to strength according to KwaZulu-Natal Arts and Culture MEC Mntomuhle Khawula.
Led by the daughter of King Misuzulu Zwelithini, Princess Tensindiso, thousands of maidens have entered the gates of the eMashobeni Palace at Pongola.
The second half of the maidens are being led inside by the maiden chosen by the King to be his Queen Sihle Mdluli.
The amabutho regiments are also making their way to the royal house to prepare for when King Zwelithini makes his appearance.
Khawula says Zulu culture and heritage is open to everyone.
“So it’s growing. It’s showing that people have an interest in it, so we are really grateful to the late king – King Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu – and to the late queen – Queen Manthombi – and also the royal family for reviving and preserving it. We are grateful to the late Undukulukazi Phindangene, to everybody. What we can say to them on the other side is what they started we are really taking it forward in leaps and bounds. We’ll not disappoint. What they started for us it’s a heritage for the future generations of KwaZulu and also South Africa.”
