By Celani Sikhakhane
- Organisers had to change the name of their virginity celebration after pressure from the culture commission.
- Alcohol, exposed breasts and lack of underwear banned under new rules for maidens’ event.
The organisers of a new maiden festival have been forced to follow strict rules after the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Commission) stepped in.
The event was originally named the Amatshitshi Festival, celebrating virgins who take part in the reed dance.
But the CRL Commission told organisers the word “amatshitshi” is sacred and cannot be used for branding or business.
Cultural expert Dr Nomagugu Ngobese, who advised the organisers, said the festival has now been renamed the Amatshiwelele Festival.
It will take place at Curries Fountain Stadium in Durban on 24 May.
Ngobese said the commission laid down rules on what maidens should wear.
“They said boobs must be covered and they must wear something like panties under their traditional skirts,” she said.
“All these rules need to be followed as per the commission’s stipulations. Alcohol must also be prohibited at the event.”
The event is being organised by Pastor Papa G Gumede and Zamambo Mkhize, a popular maiden who sings reed dance songs on TikTok.
Gumede said the organisers turned down offers from six Cape Town beverage companies that wanted to sponsor the event with alcohol.
“The main purpose is to celebrate maidens and their purity,” he said.
Zamambo said they had to get advice about the alcohol ban. “We don’t think it would be wrong to enjoy ourselves the way we like,” she said.
She also complained that maidens are often looked down on. “People judge us too much, as if we are not human beings.”
Pictured above: Dr Nomagugu Ngobese says the Amatshiwelele Festival will follow strict commission rules.
Image source: Celani Sikhakhane
