Venda culture loses prime-time home as 'Muvhango' ends after nearly 30 years

"'Muvhango' was a big movement that gave the Venda people a platform to showcase their talent, language and culture," Gabriel Temudzani said.

Gabriel Temudzani  fears loss of representation as 'Muvhango' bows out.
Gabriel Temudzani fears loss of representation as 'Muvhango' bows out. (SUPPLIED)

Muvhango airs its final episode on SABC2 on Tuesday after gracing our screens for 28 years. 

In an interview with TimesLIVE, Gabriel Temudzani, who played the character of chief Azwindini Mukwevho, said the show has been far more than a job, it was a cultural touchstone.

“Muvhango was a big movement that gave the Venda people a platform to showcase their talent, language and culture. It fostered cohesion countrywide and beyond the borders of our country,” he said.

The show's creator Duma Ndlovu called Muvhango a groundbreaking platform that elevated a once “ignored language” into something celebrated across the nation. 

With the series ending, Gabriel said there is a sense of loss, as Venda people will watch TV without representation.

“Muvhango broke stereotypes and gave our people from deep rural areas an opportunity to be on TV and understand the topography of our country through TV.” 

Reflecting on his journey, he said the show taught him the power of leadership and that family is an integral component of a society. 

“It lies with Venda people and viewers at large to advocate for the show and the content they want to resonate with.”

Gabriel expressed his commitment to preserving his storytelling legacy through his media company. He said he is building a life deeply rooted in community, with diverse ventures such as a travel agency and motivational speaking, all aimed at continuing his narrative in a meaningful way.


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