South African culture and traditions

The people of South African know how to embrace beliefs and origins in all aspects and diversities. The South African culture is unique due to its diversified way of living. This is ravishingly endowed nation, well fits the term “Rainbow Nation,” as many people from different cultures and traditions live as one.

Various traditional ethnic groups have varying aspects of colour, dances, fabric, food, religious customs, and cultural festivals. On top of that, women play significant roles in passing the South African culture to their children as they bring them up. Tourists visiting the country enjoy the South African traditions portrayed by the different ethnic groups. Not only do tourists visit the present ethnic group communities but also the famous religious and historical sites in the country.

So how many cultures in South Africa do you know? Well, the country boasts 11 official languages while eight others are not yet officially recognized. The country has many African tribes and cultures that were established by the new settlers in the region. The original occupants were the KhoiKhoi and San, who were later joined by the Bantu people. The European colonization also brought in different cultures to South Africa, and ways of living.

Traditional dances in South Africa

The combination of dance and music is an essential aspect of culture in most ethnic groups. Some of the celebrated South African traditional dances are described below.

Eshowe is among the coolest places in Zululand, where people practice and celebrate their African tradition. Most Zulu dances take place during ceremonies and special occasions combined with rhythmic singing. The most critical part of these Zulu celebrations is the traditional attire worn by the men and women participating.

Zulu traditional dance requires the unmarried men to dance and then the married men and women may join. The married women utter a shrill (ukukikiza), while the young women (izintombi) dance. The young men are also not left behind as they will be clapping and beating the drums.