Somizi Mhlongo under fire for wearing a Ndebele blanket for married women! South African radio host and reality TV star Somizi Mhlongo is facing criticism after donning a traditional Ndebele blanket and idliza—a garment typically reserved for married women—during a recent visit to Dr. Esther Mahlangu’s homestead.
Although Mhlongo’s intent was likely to honor Ndebele culture, his fashion choice has sparked a heated debate around the importance of understanding cultural attire before wearing it.
Meeting with Dr. Esther Mahlangu
Somizi, known for his bold and expressive fashion sense, had long hoped to meet Dr. Esther Mahlangu, the renowned Ndebele artist celebrated for her work in traditional Ndebele painting and design.
Mahlangu, whose artistic influence extends globally, has collaborated with prestigious brands, bringing widespread recognition to Ndebele art and culture. For Somizi, the meeting was a dream come true, and he visited Mahlangu’s homestead in Mthambothini village, Siyabuswa, over the weekend.
However, Somizi’s attire during the visit—an Ndebele blanket and idliza traditionally worn by married women—drew criticism, with many accusing him of showing cultural insensitivity by wearing attire that holds significant meaning within the Ndebele community.
The Significance of Ndebele Cultural Attire
Ndebele attire is steeped in history and cultural significance, representing identity, heritage, and social status. The blanket and idliza, in particular, are traditionally worn by married Ndebele women and signify a stage of life that carries respect within the community.
When individuals outside the community wear these items inappropriately, it can be perceived as a disregard for the cultural importance and value they hold.
Some Ndebele people and social media users expressed that Somizi’s choice to wear the outfit reflected a misunderstanding of these cultural traditions. His outfit sparked a broader conversation on cultural attire and the importance of respecting its deep-seated meanings.
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Social Media Backlash
Social media quickly lit up with comments, with some expressing disappointment in Somizi’s attire choice and suggesting that he may have overstepped cultural boundaries. A few prominent comments read:
- @Zweli_Thixo commented: “Dear @somizi, in my culture, you are not allowed to wear this blanket if you haven’t gone for initiation… You were supposed to dress like a man, not like a married woman, because that’s the attire of a married woman.”
- @uThembisa shared a broader perspective on cultural respect: “This is true of all cultures actually… I grew up Zulu. I’ve never worn isidwaba or isicholo because that’s married women’s garb, but you see people now dressing even children in those.”
- @Ndaba_2025 criticized Somizi, saying: “The worse part is there Man is old for this nonsense he’s doing, as old he is, he supposed to know to respect cultural traditions.”
For many, Somizi’s choice to wear a married woman’s attire exemplified a broader issue—of public figures adopting cultural symbols as fashion statements without appreciating their deeper meanings. Some critics also highlighted that wearing such attire without permission or understanding can dilute the cultural symbols’ significance.
The Broader Conversation on Cultural Sensitivity
The criticism Somizi received highlights a larger debate about the use and representation of cultural attire, particularly by public figures.
Cultural attire often carries a symbolic meaning that extends beyond fashion and represents an individual’s or group’s beliefs, values, and societal roles. As cultural attire becomes more accessible, it raises questions about the ethical considerations involved when people outside the culture wear these symbols.
Public figures are often looked up to, and when they wear cultural items, they can either foster cultural appreciation or risk cultural appropriation, depending on the sensitivity and respect shown. The line between appreciation and appropriation remains an ongoing conversation, with people increasingly calling for more awareness and respect.
Somizi’s Response to the Backlash
As of now, Somizi has not made any public statements in response to the criticism. His actions have reignited a discussion on social media about cultural boundaries, with many urging public figures and individuals alike to take the time to understand the significance of cultural symbols before wearing them.
For some, the controversy underlines the importance of learning about and respecting cultural traditions, especially in a diverse country like South Africa. The incident with Somizi serves as a reminder that wearing cultural attire, especially garments with specific societal meanings, should be done with an understanding of and respect for the culture it represents.
In conclusion, while Somizi’s intentions may have been harmless, the backlash demonstrates the need for greater cultural sensitivity and awareness. In a multicultural society, respecting and preserving each group’s heritage can foster mutual respect and appreciation.
As public figures continue to engage with diverse cultural elements, many hope they will do so in a way that honors, rather than dilutes, these traditions.
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