Zulu Tribe

Who are Zulus?

Zulu tribe is the largest ethnic group consisting 10-11 million people residing in South Africa. Zulus believe that they are originally from Congo area, who had migrated to South of the continent in 16^th century. They speak isiZulu, which is also the official language of South Africa.

The people of this tribe believe in their creator God Nkulunkulu and practice interaction with ancestor’s spirits as their day to day ritual. They believe in sorceries and offended spirits.

Culture and Tradition

Zulus are distinctly known for their culture and tradition. They are famous for their beads work and ethnic craftsmanship. As per the Zulu culture, men are considered to be the head of the family and women have to obey their decisions. Similarly it is also said that the younger people are not supposed to look into the eyes of their elders and speak. This can be considered to be disrespect towards the elders.

For Zulus, women are valuable possessions. This is why a prospective groom has to pay a ‘lobola’ or payment to the bride’s father during marriage. The acceptance of the bride to the groom’s family is marked by slaughter of a cow.

History

Zulus are known for their historical conflict with the Britishers during 19^th century. Although Zulus once formed a powerful state, Zululand under their leader Shaka in 1816, yet years later Britishers had an upper hand and finally Zululand got absorbed into the Cape colony.

Modern Zulus

At present half of the Zulu population live in cities and engage in domestic work and the rest work in farms. Their food is based out of cattle and agriculture. The Zulu traditional beer is not only a staple food but a considerable source of nutrition. Still now, Zulus consider eating in same vessel as a gesture of friendship.

Older Zulu women wear Isicholo, a wide hat made of straw and decorated with beads. They also wear Isidwaba, a pleated skirt made of cowhide and softened by hand. Younger women sometimes decorate their 'Isidwaba' with beads, whereas older women wear it plain. Clothing for Zulu girls is mainly made of beadwork and is usually revealing.