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Picture courtesy: (mzansimagic) The Balobedu Royal Council claims that the impending broadcast of Queen Modjadji will undermine and marginalise the Khelobedu language and the Balobedu community, and the people.
(The Post News)- The Pretoria High Court is expected to hear an urgent court case on Tuesday 9 July, brought by the Balobedu Royal Council against MultiChoice, to prevent the broadcast of the Queen Modjadji television series.
The television series was scheduled to premiere on July 14 on Mzansi Magic, but the Balobedu Royal Council and Balobedu Royal Nation are contesting that they were neither informed nor gave their approval for the broadcast of Queen Modjadji, alleging a lack of consultation and consent.
They are seeking a court order to stop MultiChoice from broadcasting the series.
Gabriel Rasebotsa, the secretary-general of the Balobedu Royal Council, stated that neither the Balobedu Royal Nation nor Rain Queen Masalanabo Modjadji VII were engaged in any discussions or consulted by MultiChoice or the show’s producer, Duma ka Ndlovu, prior to the production of the series.
However, Nomsa Philiso, MultiChoice’s CEO for General Entertainment, argued that the series presents a valuable chance for audiences to learn about and appreciate the rich cultural heritage and customs of the Lobedu people.
“The drama series will also depict the legendary queen’s renowned ability to make rain,” Philiso added.
“This iconic tale is drawn from the remarkable legacy of the venerable Balobedu rainmaker, the inaugural Queen Modjadji, whose dynasty has reigned over the Lobedu people of Southern Africa for generations,” Philips said.
Philiso also noted that the production team conducted extensive research and collaborated with essential figures, including tribal elders, community leaders, and academic experts, to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the series.
The defendants in the legal case include MultiChoice Group Ltd, Duma ka Ndlovu, Mpapatla Modjadji, the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs.
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