ELELWANI MULELU EMBRACES VENDA CULTURE

By Precious Mupenzi

• Heritage Day, celebrated on the 24th of September in South Africa, is an occasion to honour the nation’s diverse cultures, with this year’s theme focusing on those who sacrificed their lives for freedom.
• Elelwani Mulelu, Social Work Policy Manager at the Department of Social Development, embodies her Venda heritage through her traditional attire, the ‘Musisi’, which symbolises her community’s identity and values.
• Through her commitment to preserving Venda traditions and participating in cultural practices, Elelwani inspires others to cherish their own cultural identities and foster unity amidst South Africa’s rich diversity.

The 24th of September marks Heritage Day in South Africa, providing an opportunity to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of the nation’s cultures. Elelwani Mulelu, the Social Work Policy Manager at the Department of Social Development (DSD), shares her personal insights on this significant occasion, dedicated to honouring our rich diversity. This year’s theme is “Celebrating the lives of our heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for our freedom.”

Hailing from the picturesque Tshakuma Village in Venda, Limpopo, under the leadership of Chief Madzivhandila, Elelwani is a vibrant embodiment of her rich heritage, skillfully intertwining tradition and modernity in her expressions. She proudly showcases the ‘Musisi’—a striking traditional attire that reflects the cultural depth of her community.

The ‘Musisi’ is not merely clothing; it is a powerful symbol of Venda identity and pride. Typically made from brightly coloured fabrics, the attire features sophisticated patterns and designs that tell stories of ancestry and communal values. Elelwani has beautifully accessorised her look with a stunning beaded necklace and a matching beaded hairband called ‘Lutomolatsie’, both of which add a vibrant touch to her ensemble.

The necklace, a cascade of colourful beads, rests elegantly against her collarbone, catching the light with every movement. Each bead is carefully chosen, often in hues that echo the rich landscapes of Venda—from the deep reds of the earth to the bright greens of lush vegetation.

Her beaded hairband, a delightful flourish, perfectly complements the necklace. Decorated with similar vibrant beads, it frames her face beautifully, creating a harmonious balance between tradition and style.

On her ankles, Elelwani wears beautiful ankle bracelets known as ‘makunda’ in Venda. These bracelets, crafted from crocheted silver wires, showcase the skill and artistry of local artisans. The ‘makunda’ adds a shimmering touch to her traditional attire, reflecting light with every step she takes. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these ankle bracelets hold cultural significance, symbolising beauty, femininity, and a deep connection to her Venda heritage.

Wearing the ‘Musisi’ allows Elelwani to celebrate her roots while engaging with contemporary life. The flowing shape and vibrant colours reflect the natural landscapes of Venda, reminding all who see her of the region’s beauty. Through her attire, Elelwani not only pays homage to her heritage but also inspires others to cherish and uphold the values and stories of their own cultural identities.

For Elelwani, Heritage Month serves as a powerful reminder to reconnect with her Venda roots. “It means reminding ourselves of our culture,” she explains. She actively participates in heritage gatherings that showcase her cultural values and beliefs, proudly donning her traditional attire and enjoying traditional foods that reflect her identity.

Describing her cultural identity, Elelwani emphasises her Venda heritage, noting, “Being Venda obliges me to follow our traditions.” She highlights the deep respect embedded in Venda culture, which has shaped her into the respectful woman she is today—values she is committed to passing down to future generations.

One particularly significant custom for Elelwani is ‘murundu’, the male circumcision ceremony conducted in the mountains, a cherished Venda tradition that underscores the community’s commitment to cultural practices.

Preserving traditional knowledge is essential for Elelwani. “Our grandparents taught us to use traditional medicine, and rituals like ‘muthuso’—performed when a child is born—must be upheld,” she insists. These customs not only enrich individual lives but also strengthen community bonds.

In the context of South Africa’s rich cultural diversity, Elelwani believes that celebrating heritage is vital. “South Africa is home to 11 unique cultures, making our heritage celebrations vibrant and relevant,” she notes. This diversity fosters unity, as Heritage Month encourages South Africans to learn about one another’s values and traditions, gradually creating a more inclusive society.

Traditions, beliefs, and practices form vital connections to Elelwani’s family history. One notable tradition is the slaughtering of a cow during weddings—a ritual steeped in significance and communal participation.

Food plays a central role in cultural expression, and Elelwani cherishes traditional dishes from her Venda heritage. Maize porridge, known as the staple food, is often paired with ‘mukusule’, dried vegetables. She also highlights ‘mashonzha’, or ‘mopani’ worms, enjoyed in various ways and admired for their nutritional benefits. ‘Tshidzimba’, made from dried beans, maize, and peanuts, is specially prepared during lobola negotiations, symbolising the importance of marriage rituals.

Despite the influence of modernity, Elelwani affirms that traditional foods are being revitalised rather than forgotten. She makes it a point to seek out her cultural dishes, especially when visiting her hometown, ensuring that she carries the essence of her heritage wherever she goes.

Central to Venda culture are traditional festivals and ceremonies, where dances like tshikona and tshigomela play a vital role in expressing identity and community spirit. As Elelwani beautifully states, “Dance is the heartbeat of our culture, connecting us to our ancestors and each other.”

Tshikona, a lively dance performed at the chief’s kraal during gatherings, showcases the strength and skill of male dancers. Accompanied by vibrant music from traditional instruments, it serves not only as a display of physical prowess but also as a means of telling stories and preserving cultural heritage.

On the other hand, tshigomela is a graceful and expressive dance performed by women. It emphasises fluid movements and intricate formations, reflecting the beauty and rhythm of everyday life. Through tshigomela, women honour their roles within the community, highlighting themes of unity and resilience. Together, these dances embody the spirit of Venda culture, allowing participants and audiences to connect deeply with their history and traditions.

As South Africa prepares to commemorate Heritage Day on 24th September, Elelwani encourages all South Africans to embrace their heritage. “We honour the brave freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for our liberation,” she reflects, recognising their vital role in shaping the diverse cultural tapestry of the nation.

On Heritage Day, Elelwani plans to gather with her loved ones for a special meal, celebrating not only their heritage but also the strong bonds that tie them together as a family. She looks forward to enjoying delicious local dishes, including her favourite maize porridge and mashonzha, which bring back cherished memories from her childhood.