Not Fashion But Identity :Zulu Maiden Pride #culture #africanculture #zulumaidens #IndigenousTribe

This is not a costume. This is Intombi pure Zulu virgin maiden. What she wears is sacred: Isigekle.The beaded veil over her chest. White beads mean purity, red means she carries the blood of her ancestors. Isgege / Idlukula The short yellow pleated skirt. Only an untouched maiden is allowed to wear it short like this. Izinhlaka & Amaphoyisa: Beaded bracelets and goat-hair anklets that praise the ground as she dances. The sound chases away evil spirits. She covers her head and raises her hand in *Ukubingelela - saluting King Misuzulu and the Queen Mother. This dress is worn only for the holy ceremonies: Umkhosi woMhlanga (Reed Dance)and Umemulo (The 21 years Coming of Age). She is not showing skin. She is showing pride, discipline and culture. A Zulu girl is taught: Your body is the temple of your ancestors. #ZuluCulture #IntombiYesiZulu #UmkhosiWoMhlanga