BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA
MBANGWENI – By the time the sun settled over eMbangweni Royal Residence, the grounds had already become a sea of colour, song and movement, with thousands of Imbali gathered for Day Two of the second leg of Umhlanga 2026.
The day carried a different rhythm as maidens assembled in their groups, singing and moving together as they prepared for kucitsa Umhlanga before Their Majesties.
At the Arena, the traditional process of kuhlehla brought another layer of ceremony to the day. Led by, Her Royal Highness Princess Sakhizwe, Liphovela laZuma, Indvuna yeMbali Bongiwe “Vivane” Hlatjwako, emaZinyane and Bantfwabenkhosi. Imbali moved with purpose as the proceedings unfolded.
Their Majesties and members of the Royal Family watched from the Arena as different groups showcased through song and dance. The atmosphere shifted between moments of anticipation and bursts of celebration as each group took its turn.
The Ngabezweni Regiment also added to the spectacle, led by Her Royal Highness Princess Buhlebetive and emaZinyane. Their presence added another colourful chapter to a day deeply rooted in tradition.
For many of the maidens, however, Umhlanga was not only about the formal proceedings. It was also about friendships, laughter and the chance to share an experience with fellow Imbali.
As the day reached one of its memorable moments, His Majesty King Mswati III performed kudlalisela as a gesture of appreciation and honour to Imbali. Thousands gathered around the Royal Residence, their voices, songs and movement filling the space as Day Two drew to a close.
It was a day where tradition was not simply watched from a distance. It was lived through song, dance, ceremony, friendship and the collective spirit of Umhlanga.
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