Somizi’s Ndebele outfit sparks cultural controversy!

Media personality Somizi Mhlongo has ignited a social media firestorm with a recent post featuring himself in traditional isiNdebele attire meant for married women.

The 51-year-old choreographer and socialite, popularly known as Somgaga, shared the image on Instagram, standing beside acclaimed Ndebele artist Dr. Esther Mahlangu.

The photo quickly drew criticism from Ndebele activist and painter Kgotso Mahlangu, who deemed Somizi’s choice of clothing disrespectful to isiNdebele culture.

Kgotso pointed out that the isiNdebele blanket and Idzila (copper or brass rings) worn by Somizi are traditionally reserved for married women.

“Spiritually, this doesn’t make sense. Our cultures, as black people, are deeply connected to spirituality, and wearing attire that doesn’t align with one’s life stage according to amaNdebele customs is completely disrespectful,” Kgotso stated.

He elaborated on the cultural significance of the attire, emphasizing that clothing in amaNdebele culture is worn according to different life stages, each initiated by cultural events such as ukuwela and ukuthomba.

Kgotso explained that the Idzila symbolizes a woman’s faithfulness to her husband and is believed to have ritual powers, only removed after the husband’s death.

He also expressed disappointment in how Somizi paired the traditional blanket with trousers, stating that this combination does not conform to amaNdebele customs for men.

“In isiNdebele, each stage of life has its own attire for both men and women. What Somizi did by wearing a blanket intended for married women along with trousers and the Idzila was completely inappropriate,” Kgotso asserted.

Despite efforts to reach Somizi for comment, the SunTeam was unable to obtain a response. The incident has sparked discussions online about cultural appropriation and the importance of respecting traditional South African attire and practices.