Queen mother Vho Tshifaro celebrates centenary
Granny Takalani is of the view that society has a role to play in shaping the youth to live longer and stay healthy by participating in cultural activities.
LIMPOPO – The queen mother, Vho Tshifaro Adziambei Takalani was born 100 years ago on January 1, 1924 in a village known as Khubvi Harandima just outside Thohoyandou. Her centenary celebrations were held at Mukula chief kraal (Musanda) on December 30.
Granny Takalani was born into the well-respected family of the late Mulangaphuma George Netshishivhe and Nyaphophi Magadze and she is still a staunch member of the Dutch Reformed Church in her home village of Mukula. She was married to the late traditional leader Vhamusanda Ramushasha Takalani, who was succeeded by her son, the late Vhamusanda Mbangiseni Takalani.
The current traditional leader of Mukula village, Vhamusanda Mpfuneni Takalani, the son of the late Vhamusanda Nkhwathiseni Takalani is the great son to the centenarian.
One of the organisers of the ceremony, Khotsimunene Rudazani Takalani said the 100-year celebration was organised by grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins and Takalani’s children in a bid to honour the good work and contribution she has made in their lives.
He said the celebration was honoured by royal family members in a bid to strengthen relationships, including among others the Nethengwe, Tshikonelo (Mphaphuli), Rambuda, Rathogwa, Shavhani and Themeli families.
According to Khotsimunene Takalani, Granny Takalani taught them how to respect older people and one another, and maintain cleanliness.
“She encourages us to love God more than anything else, and to work hard in school so we can have a bright future. She loves to exercise and stay healthy and her eating habits are traditional. She does not like junk food.”
He said their gran also encourages young mothers to feed young children traditional food such as mashonzha and green vegetables.
Granny Takalani is also said to have a disdain for teenagers who abuse liquor nowadays. She is of the view that society has a role to play in shaping the youth to live longer and stay healthy by participating in cultural activities. She is still part of an elderly group that participates in tshigombela cultural dance as their routinely exercise.
Thovhele Vudzidzhenan Nethengwe, who also spoke during the ceremony, confirmed that the queen mother had raised them well and wished her a happy birthday and many blessings.
