PRINCESS Buhlebetive brought a fresh sound to the Umhlanga Main Day on Monday with a newly composed song celebrating His Majesty King Mswati III’s 40 years on the throne.
The princess captivated the thousands of maidens and spectators gathered for the annual Reed Dance as she sang and danced to the song, which was specially composed to mark the country’s Ruby Jubilee.
The performance stood out for its distinctive sound, strong vocals and the princess’ energetic ‘giya’ showcase. From the beat to her vocal prowess and graceful movements, the performance drew the attention of the crowd, who quickly joined in the celebrations.
The song’s lyrics called on the nation to celebrate His Majesty’s four decades on the throne while also highlighting the development achieved in the country during his reign.
Among the developments mentioned was the International Convention Centre (ICC), also known as the Ezulwini Palazzo.
One of the key lines in the song was: ‘Mashumilamane eminyaka Ingwenyama ihleti esihlalweni,’ loosely translated as, ‘It has been forty years since the king has sat on the throne.’
The song further urged the nation to celebrate and be happy, with the princess singing, ‘Ngihalalisileni, ngibongiseni,’ loosely translated as, ‘Let us celebrate and be happy.’
The crowd responded enthusiastically, with many getting to their feet to sing and dance along with the princess.
Another memorable line, “Ladlala lizinyane lembhube. Lagiyalizinyane lembhube,” loosely translated as, “Watch as the cub of the lion dances, watch as the cub of the lion rejoices,” further energised the performance.
The atmosphere intensified when the master of ceremonies called on the maidens to raise their flags, with applause and ululations ringing across the venue as the princess continued with her showcase.
Her performance was widely praised, with spectators particularly impressed by her creativity and confidence. Sebenele Dlamini said the princess had once again surprised her with her creativity.
“The princess is full of surprises. I like that about her,” Dlamini said.
Khaya Motsa said such moments were part of what continued to make the Umhlanga Reed Dance unique every year. He said the annual ceremony always guaranteed a spectacle, with performers often bringing something different to the celebration.
The performance marked the second song introduced by Princess Buhlebetive at the Umhlanga Reed Dance.
Last year, she introduced ‘Giya’, which she first showcased during the Shiselweni Umhlanga. ‘Giya’, a collaboration between Young Zesh and Princess Buhlebetive, was officially released on August 21.
With her latest composition, the princess once again used music and dance to celebrate an important milestone while adding her creative touch to one of the country’s biggest cultural events.
