ONE of the most eagerly anticipated television series produced in Africa, Queen Modjadji, premiered on DStv’s Mzansi Magic channel on Sunday, taking up the 8pm prime viewing slot.
Produced for MultiChoice by Rhythm World Productions, this series draws inspiration from the story of Balobedu rainmaker Queen Modjadji, whose bloodline has reigned over southern Africa’s Lobedu clan for centuries.
Destined for the throne and endowed with a powerful ancestral gift, Queen Modjadji’s rule ushered in a lineage of hereditary queens.
Her journey tells the story of a matriarchal dynasty, revered for its apparent ability to control the clouds and summon the rain, securing the Balobedu royalty a venerated place among African dynasties.
MultiChoice Zimbabwe corporate affairs and public relations head Charity Njanji said the series was likely to gain a huge following in Zimbabwe during its run.
“Queen Modjadji follows the success of Shaka Ilembe, which became a global TV phenomenon and, like that successful series, results from MultiChoice’s strategy to promote African storytelling,” Njanji said.
She said the team behind Queen Modjadji spent months researching, consulting with key stakeholders, tribal leaders and academic experts for the production.
Renowned poet, playwright and producer Duma Ndlovu led the project, aiming to create a series that captivates viewers with the rich culture and traditions of the Lobedu.
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“The earth, the elements and human energy connect in ways that are both physical and spiritual, both obvious and unseen. Queen Modjadji embodied this connection and the show team tells us the series will explore what the women who have held this royal title have experienced, sacrificed, lost and achieved,” she noted.
“It will be very entertaining with a strong episodic storyline and historical detail set under unpredictable skies, where rain or storm reflects the lives of the people on the ground.”
The cast includes Makoma Mohale-Maselekwani as Queen Modjadji, who brings about a golden age of peace and prosperity to the land.
No stranger to the small screen, Mohale-Maselekwani has appeared on various television shows, including Mzansi Magic’s The River.
A graduate of the Performing Arts, her first performances were theatre based on plays such as Too Sweet Too Bad, Fright Alah and The Infidel.
Masutang Rasekele, a new face on the screen, playing Dzugudini, the daughter of the Rain King and the mother of Queen Modjadji.
Dzugudini is crucial in Lovedu history, saving the kingdom from drought.
Ngelekanyo Ramulodi as young Queen Modjadji, known from Mzansi Magic’s S’phiwo, playing Modjadji as 14-year-old Maselegwani.
Helen Lebepe as Raisibe, had roles in Mzansi Magic’s Saints and Sinners and in this role is Modjadji’s confidante.
Thabo Bopape as Mambo Mugodo, is a film director and producer, but he plays the Supreme Mambo of the Kharanga Kingdom, striving to restore balance and end a severe drought.
Wiseman Zitha as Mamaila, is an award-winning actor who plays King Mugodo’s estranged son, raised by King Thulare.
Modi Mudau as Khadikhulu, Maselekwani’s aunt and adviser.
Putla Setlapelo as Ramulodi, keeper of the secret and king’s keeper.
Priscilla Raboroko as young Raisibe, Maselekwani’s childhood companion and trusted friend.
Aubrey Mmakola as Kgoshi Mampuru, King of the neighbouring Bapedi Kingdom.
Moses D Rasekele as Mphabantshi, the royal healer and prophecy teller.
Sipho Ndlovu as Phaahla, the cunning military general of the Bapedi Kingdom.
Candy TsaMaNdebele, is an award-winning musician this time playing Muyahabo, one of Mambo Mugodo’s wives.
