When a life is as layered, improbable and luminous as that of Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu, it is only fitting that it arrives on screen with cinematic flourish. This weekend, as South Africa’s first Zulu prince of Indian origin turns 50, his story is set to do exactly that.
Zee TV, India’s pioneering Hindi entertainment channel with a global footprint, has chosen this milestone to release From Indenture to Royalty, a documentary tracing the extraordinary arc of a man who has become a bridge between cultures, communities and continents. The premiere, unfolding in Richards Bay on Saturday, transforms his golden-jubilee celebration into a cultural event with the sweep of a royal gala.
A life scripted by service, spirit and serendipity
Prince Ishwar’s story reads like a modern epic. Born in 1976 in previously underprivileged communal Lot 14, Stanger, the year of the Soweto Uprising that helped steer South Africa toward Freedom Day, he grew up as the third of seven children in modest circumstances. Early hardship, including the death of his father during his matric year, forced him into responsibility and shaped a resilience that would define his life.
Guided by the spiritual teachings of the Swami Sivananda lineage and inspired later by Sri Swami Sahaj Ananda, Ishwar turned personal adversity into purpose. After retrenchment in 1998, he founded AC Industrial, merging business leadership with social consciousness. His dedication eventually earned recognition from the late King Goodwill Zwelithini kaBhekuzulu, who bestowed upon him the name “Mabheka” meaning the one who cares and protects, a title he has worn not as an ornament but as an obligation.
Zee TV describes the documentary as a chronicle of “resilience, purpose and service” and a portrait of a man who has woven together philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, interfaith harmony and humanitarian outreach with unusual grace.
A prince of two worlds
In KwaZulu?Natal, Ramlutchman has become a familiar figure: a philanthropist building homes for the vulnerable, a cultural custodian honouring both Zulu and Indian heritage and a wellness advocate championing yoga long before it became globally fashionable. His dozens of Sivananda Peace Pillars, now recognised internationally, stand as markers of his belief in unity, compassion and spiritual upliftment.
Premier Thami Ntuli, in a warm birthday tribute, praised the prince’s “dedication to social cohesion, unity in diversity and the well?being of our people,” noting his leadership in bringing yoga and wellness programmes to communities across the province.
Beyond South Africa, Prince Ishwar’s influence stretches across the Indian diaspora. As Africa Coordinator of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International), he links the continent’s Indian communities to a global network of 35 million people. From New York, GOPIO founding chairman Dr Thomas Abraham sent a glowing message, describing the prince as “a leader of heart and action… whose compassion and humanity distinguish him far beyond titles”.
From Indenture to Royalty: A story for our times
The documentary’s title is no metaphor. It traces the arc from the indentured labourers who arrived on South African shores 166 years ago to a moment where a son of that history stands as a Zulu prince, symbolising personal triumph and the evolving tapestry of South African identity.
Prince Ishwar’s story is not just lived in service; it has been documented in multiple forms. In 2022, he released a richly illustrated pictorial book chronicling his life, spiritual journey and community work. Launched in Durban, the publication quickly became a favourite for its vivid photographs of temple gatherings, rural outreach programmes, royal ceremonies and international peace missions. The book celebrates his personal journey while archiving the many communities he has uplifted; a reminder that one of their own continues to make an impact at home and abroad.
He has also campaigned for the KwaZulu?Natal Government and eThekwini Municipality to jointly build a statue commemorating the 1860 Indian indentured labourers who first arrived in Durban. “It will be a great gift for my birthday year,” he said, referring to attending the unveiling of the long-delayed monument on Durban’s beachfront, where the first 360 men, women and children landed. In marking 166 years since their arrival, the statue would stand as a long-overdue tribute to resilience, sacrifice and quiet heroism; a permanent anchor for their story in South Africa’s shared public memory.
Prince Ishwar’s life also mirrors the nation’s own journey toward reconciliation. Through humility and behind-the-scenes relationship-building, he has contributed to bridging divides between the IFP and ANC, exemplifying the quiet diplomacy that has been a hallmark of his leadership.
A celebration in royal and romantic colour
The film screening will take place on Saturday, 14 February, Valentine’s Day, adding symbolic warmth to an already festive occasion. Birthday messages have poured in from across the world, echoing that Prince Ishwar’s life has become a beacon of unity at a time when South Africa hungers for bridge-builders. While he marked his birthday with family, friends and the Richards Bay community on 8 February, the celebrations crescendo this weekend with the film premiere.
As Zee TV put it: “We invite the public to join us in celebrating Prince Ishwar’s inspiring life journey and his unwavering commitment to uplifting humanity.”
A prince by honour, a humanitarian by instinct and now a subject of film, Prince Ishwar Ramlutchman Mabheka Zulu steps into his next chapter with the same quiet dignity that brought him here. His story, once lived in service, now lives on screen.
Lovers Rock promises an unforgettable day of love
Celebrate love at Lovers Rock, Johannesburg’s premier Valentine’s Day festival, returning to GROUND The Venue on February 14, 2026.
The second edition of the festival, hosted by the creative powerhouse couple Coco & J’Something, aims to bring an immersive event that will beautifully blend culinary artistry with soulful culture.
The festival offers a diverse experience, featuring artisan markets, nostalgic games and intimate dining curated by the hosts.
Visitors can find serenity in the Sanctuary or dance through a 12-hour musical marathon.
The 2026 line-up is headlined by the award-winning Mi Casa and marks a historic reunion for the legendary duo Liquideep after an 11-year hiatus. Designed for connection and discovery, Lovers Rock promises an unforgettable day of romance and community.
Tickets can be purchased on Howler starting at R550.
Kgethang Konese as Easter sorted with The Rise
Celebrated gospel artist and visionary leader Kgethang Konese returns this Easter with the fifth edition of The Rise, a powerful worship experience taking place on 18 April 2026 at Ethiopia in Midrand and on 25 April 2026 at Ngoako Ramatlhodi Sports Complex in Seshego.
Now a cherished Easter tradition, The Rise unites communities through reflection, praise and authentic traditional gospel.
The Midrand gathering features Mmuso Worship, while Seshego audiences can look forward to Manana Ramongae, Mapula Monyepao and Katleho Seobi. Each event promises a deeply spiritual atmosphere rooted in heartfelt ministry.
After his successful live recording on 31 January 2026, Kgethang continues to expand his impact both on and off the stage.
Born in Lesotho and raised in Klerksdorp, he has built an impressive career spanning
ministry and business, creating thousands of opportunities nationwide. Through The Rise, he once again invites audiences to reflect, renew and rise in faith this Easter season.
Ben Rodrigues releases emotionally raw ballad
South African singer-songwriter Ben Rodrigues unveils a personal new chapter with his latest single, Hazel Eyes. Best known for viral pop hits like Was It Real, Tell Me How and Homesick, Rodrigues now trades upbeat anthems for an emotionally raw ballad that reveals a more vulnerable side.
Written at 3am in a London hotel room during his first UK tour, Hazel Eyes captures the emotional weight of chasing a dream while fearing the cost of distance from the one he loves. The title becomes a metaphor for the relationships we risk while pursuing ambition, a theme that resonates far beyond music.
Serving as a glimpse into his upcoming June album, the single marks bold new sonic and lyrical territory. With a nationwide tour, US collaborations and a Kirstenbosch performance on 22 March 2026 is set to be a defining year for Ben Rodrigues.
Embassies mark milestones and traditions:
A vibrant evening of tradition and shared values
Babahouse was transformed into a warm tapestry of culture, connection and celebration as the Singapore high commissioner, HE MR Zainal Arif Mantaha, together with Jennifer Cheng, hosted an elegant Chinese New Year gathering to welcome the Year of the Horse.
The evening unfolded in the spirit of the season — rich with symbolism, optimism and shared joy. Guests took part in the traditional Prosperity Toss (Lo Hei), lifting their chopsticks high as wishes for abundance, good health and success filled
the air.
Laughter and camaraderie echoed through the venue, underscoring the essence of Chinese New Year: renewal, unity and hope.
In his address, Mantaha reflected on Singapore’s guiding national philosophy, “We First”, a long-term vision championed by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
Against the backdrop of an increasingly complex and uncertain global environment, he emphasised the importance of collective strength, shared responsibility and community-centred progress.
The high commissioner outlined the core pillars of the We First ethos, highlighting how the values continue to shape Singapore’s social fabric:
• Shared responsibility — encouraging citizens to take collective action in addressing societal challenges.
• Giving as a lifestyle — nurturing a culture rooted in care, volunteerism and philanthropy.
• Strengthening social bonds — building an inclusive society founded on mutual respect and compassion.
• Collaborative governance — fostering partnerships that work with people, not merely for them.
The principles, he noted, resonate universally in a world where cooperation and empathy are increasingly vital.
Closing his remarks, Mantaha offered a reminder: “We go further when we go together.”
The evening stood as more than a festive occasion — it was a reflection of shared values, cultural heritage and the enduring power of unity.
Kuwait National Day 2026
Kuwait National Day, marked on 25 February 2026, commemorates the 65th anniversary of the State of Kuwait’s independence.
In recognition of the milestone, the Kuwaiti embassy in Pretoria hosted a reception on 5 February at the CT Hotel, bringing together members of the diplomatic corps, government representatives and partners to celebrate Kuwait’s national journey and its global friendships.
National Day honours a defining chapter in Kuwait’s history — 1950, when Sheikh Abdullah al-Salem al-Sabah ascended to the throne. His leadership laid the foundations of modern Kuwait, guiding the country towards constitutional governance, state institutions and a forward-looking national vision.
The celebrations are traditionally followed by Liberation Day on 26 February, a poignant reminder of Kuwait’s resilience, sovereignty and unity in the face of adversity.
The Pretoria celebration reflected both the pride of the Kuwaiti people and the strength of Kuwait’s international relationships, particularly with South Africa. Diplomatic relations between Kuwait and South Africa were established in 1994 and 1995 and have since grown into a warm and cooperative partnership. Collaboration has expanded across key sectors, including mining, agriculture, energy and infrastructure.
Economic ties between the two continue to deepen. Bilateral trade exceeded R2 billion in 2020 and cooperation was further institutionalised through the launch of the Joint Commission for Cooperation in 2021, facilitating structured engagement across multiple areas of mutual interest.
Kuwait, through its sovereign wealth fund, remains a significant investor in South Africa’s capital and financial markets, underscoring long-term confidence in the country’s economic potential. In 2025, renewed efforts were made to strengthen partnerships, particularly in energy and infrastructure development, aligning with both countries’ growth and sustainability priorities.
Celebrating women’s leadership and human rights on Saint Brigid’s Day
On Saint Brigid’s Day, a day associated with women, leadership and renewal in Irish tradition, the Irish embassy hosted an event honouring the contributions of women in the field of human rights. The event was hosted by HE Ambassador Austin Gormley.
The evening was marked by a screening of Mrs Robinson, the 2024 documentary directed by Aoife Kelleher, which chronicles the extraordinary life and legacy of Mary Robinson — Ireland’s first female president and former UN high commissioner for human rights.
Guests were taken on a compelling journey through Robinson’s trailblazing career, from her legal advocacy to her global leadership on human rights and climate justice. The film illustrates how Robinson helped transform Irish society, challenging norms and opening doors to greater equality and social justice. Her work on the international stage further cemented her reputation as a principled and courageous advocate, giving voice to the vulnerable and placing human dignity at the centre of global discourse.
Mrs Robinson serves as a timely reflection on the power of ethical leadership and the enduring impact of women who lead with vision.
Farewell lunch for Hungarian ambassador
The high commissioner of the Republic of Cyprus, HE Mr Antonis Mandritis, hosted a farewell lunch in honour of HE Mr Attila Horváth, ambassador of the Republic of Hungary, marking the conclusion of a distinguished diplomatic tenure in South Africa.
The gathering brought together members of the diplomatic corps and partners to reflect on Horváth’s contribution to strengthening bilateral relations and deepening cooperation between Hungary and South Africa. He is recognised for his commitment to dialogue, collaboration and cultural exchange.
Among his notable achievements was the introduction and promotion of teqball in South Africa, a dynamic sport that has since gained popularity and served as a platform for cultural diplomacy.
His efforts also focused on education and people-to-people engagement. The launch of the Alumni Hungary–South Africa Network stands as a lasting legacy, fostering enduring connections between alumni, institutions and future leaders of both countries.
Embassy of Peru celebrates World Breakfast Champ
The Peruvian embassy in Pretoria hosted a festive reception to celebrate Peru’s recent victory as the World Breakfast Champion, a title earned by the country’s traditional dish, pan con chicharrón.
The ambassador of the Republic of Peru, HE José Javier Augusto Shaw, together with his spouse, Olga Zakharova, welcomed members of the diplomatic corps, friends of Peru and guests to their residence.
At the heart of the celebration was pan con chicharrón — a sandwich made with crispy fried pork belly, sweet potato slices and tangy red onion criolla sauce, served in a fresh bread roll. The dish is a staple of Peruvian mornings.
In September 2025, pan con chicharrón was crowned the world’s best breakfast in a global online competition organised by Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos.
The victory sparked celebrations across Peru.
Speaking at the residence, Shaw highlighted how food serves as a bridge between cultures, bringing people together and offering insight into a nation’s history and traditions.
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