You may recognise the name Shaka Zulu from history books or Zulu folklore about one of the most famous and powerful African kings. But recently, there has been buzz about a new show on DStv that tells the story of this infamous man with iterations from his early childhood through to adulthood. This is more than just a show for local entertainment. It’s an opportunity for audiences to learn more about Zulu history on an unprecedented scale.
Set in the 1700s, Shaka iLembe tells the story of the making of the iconic African king, with iterations from his early childhood through to adulthood.
Shaka iLembe is not just a retelling of the story of this African king but is a visually stunning and historically relevant depiction of the Zulu nation. Six years in the making, the production team behind the magic has left no stone left unturned by consulting with historians, academics, and family descendants, including the reigning King of the Zulu nation, King Misuzulu ka Zwelithini, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi who is the traditional prime minister of the Zulu royal family, as well as the late King Goodwill Zwelithini.
Shaka iLembe is a fascinating opportunity to learn about the rich history and traditions of one of South Africa’s oldest and most fascinating cultures.
The key actors playing Shaka are the incredibly talented Lemogang Tsipa (adult king) and the newcomer Ntando Zondi (boy king). The series also stars Nomzamo Mbatha, who plays Princess and Queen Nandi, the revered mother of Shaka, with Thembinkosi Mthembu as King Dingiswayo who is well known for his mentorship of Shaka Zulu.
Mbatha, a co-executive producer behind the scenes in addition to playing the role of Shaka’s mother, portrays a monumental figure in history – Princess Nandi or Queen Nandi – bringing forth the narrative of a woman who pushed against all odds.
Now the much anticipated Shaka iLembe has hit the small screen, let us delve into the rich tapestry of the main characters and Zulu traditions to explore their captivating clothing, tantalizing cuisine, language and unique architecture:
