Titled “A Queen Is Crowned”, episode four of Queen Modjadji continued to immerse viewers deeper into the cultural practices of the Balobedu people, once again reminding us of the beauty and significance of African traditions. With the dots planted throughout the first three episodes finally starting to connect seamlessly, episode four featured a lot of surprising reveals – in, both, the storyline and new characters being introduced. Expect to spot some familiar faces in this episode!
A new destiny unfolds
Shortly before beginning her great trek to the Royal Compound to assume her position as Queen Modjadji, Maselekwane listens with intent as the ancestors introduce themselves and give her a pep talk. Khadikhulu, right behind Maselekwane during every step of this journey, reminds her niece that she is about to change the destiny of her people for the better. Mmathugola (played by Mahlatse Sekgodiso), the strange Rain Doctor arrives out of nowhere bearing the mysterious Rain Horns, signalling a new rain-making ritual and hampering Dzugudini (played by Masutang Rasekele) and Thibule’s (played by Collen Magongwa) plans – who had stolen the Rain Charms with hopes of disarming Maselekwane as “she who would bring the gift of abundance (in the form of rain) to the nation”.
Mambo Mugodo is laid to rest
Following his ritual suicide, Mambo Mugodo (played by Thabo Bopape) is given a ritualistic burial fit for a king, while the nation observes the strict mourning rules. Did you know that in Balobedu culture, it can take up to six months to prepare for a King’s burial? During this time, fire is not permitted – therefore, only fresh food is consumed. Khadikhulu (played by Mudi Mudau) takes centre stage in this episode as the family’s remaining elder and matriarch. Khadikhulu’s role is felt, especially, while she sends her brother off with a tear-jerking intercession – pleading, among other things, that Mambo Mugodo be forgiven by the sons he murdered – and that the ancestors receive him warmly in the afterlife despite his many other flaws.
A nation mired in secrecy
Completely unaware of Maselekwane’s existence, the excited Royal Council prepares for a grand coronation of a new Rain King – little knowing that a surprise that is about to shock them out of their complacency awaits! Dignitaries from the Tsonga, Bapedi and Venda tribes arrive to pay their tributes to a new Rain King. Uproar ensues when a Queen, instead of a King, is presented. While the Royal Council and Khadikhulu exchange hostile words, an unexpected stranger’s arrival throws a spanner in the works. The coronation ends in fiasco when said stranger Mamaila (played by Wiseman Zitha) claims that he is the rightful heir to the throne. More answers to this cliffhanger in the next episode.
Stay tuned to Queen Modjadji every Sunday at 8pm on Mzansi Magic, Channel 161, for more surprising plot twists.
Missed an episode? The first four episodes of Queen Modjadji are available on Catch Up.
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