THE ZULU REED DANCE IN SOUTH AFRICA
The reed dance also known as the umkhosi womhlanga is celebrated early September at the king's only traditional palace. It celebrates virginity and womanhood where thousands of young Zulu women gather to collect reeds and present the to the king where the king may choose a new wife from the maidens
. It symbolize respect and cultural heritage and it includes singing , dancing and emphasizes on unity among the people in the community, it's also a form of preservation of the zulu tradition.
The reed dance also serves as a platform for discussing contemporary social issues among the youths.
Significance of the virginity test in the reed dance
It symbolize purity and respect for cultural traditions. The virginity test is conducted by older women in the community where the old women examine the virginia by physically testing the hymen to asses its integrity with the believe the an intact hymen indicates virginity. It's serves as a rite of passage for young women .
The practice is also believed to protect girls from early pregnancies and sexual transmitted infections.
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