Remembering Mandela: Influences in popular culture
On the third anniversary of Tata's death, South Africans acknowledge the Nobel Laureate's efforts of being at the forefront of racial equality for all, and towards the attainment of a country run by a democratically-elected government. From award-winning films to best-selling books - Newswatch explores five ways in which pop culture has been influenced by the world's most adored icon.
The world over has paid tributes to SA's first democratically elected president. Nelson Mandela died at the age of 95 in 2013.
The legacy of Nelson Mandela has not only been preserved in historical sites, foundations and projects but also in aspects of popular culture such as films, books and music. Here are Newswatch's top five selections on the anniversary of his death.
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Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom
Starring Idris Elba and Naomie Harris, the film charts the life of Nelson Mandela from his early childhood to his inauguration as SA’s first president. It’s largely based on Madiba’s autobiography - published in 1995 - Long Walk to Freedom. The film earned three Golden Horn Awards and a Golden Globe Award in 2014. The Empire’s Angie Errigo described the film as ‘vivid, substantial and works hard to be worthy...with Mandela’s passing it hits exactly the right note, celebrating the passionate commitment and dignity of the man.'
Invictus
Unconquerable, undefeated - these are words that are synonymous with the legacy of Madiba. A direct translation of the Latin word, Invictus - this film is based on events surrounding the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Directed by Clint Eastwood – Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon act as President Mandela and the then captain of the Springboks, Francois Pienaar. It traces the narrative of all South Africans uniting – despite the anxiety that characterised the transition into democracy in the early post-apartheid era – behind Mandela’s leadership through the universal language of sport.
'Good Morning, Mr. Mandela'
Former private secretary to Nelson Mandela, Zelda le Grange became a published author following the release of Good Morning, Mr. Mandela in 2014. It was published in six international languages in addition to English and Afrikaans. Having served as the presidential aid for 19 years, le Grange opens a window into unseen parts of Madiba’s life.
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An excerpt from the book reads - “It was becoming more than a job for me. I was becoming dependent emotionally on him, while he afforded me the opportunities of a lifetime. I was not skilled for everything he asked me to do, but he wanted to ensure that a white, young Afrikaner, who epitomized the community, remained close to him.”
Free Nelson Mandela
Protest song Free Nelson Mandela, also known as "Nelson Mandela", became a UK hit in the 1980s. The tune performed by The Specials debuted six years before the release of the anti-apartheid activist from Robben Island. The song is believed to have been a prominent representative of the global opposition to apartheid. A concert - co-organised by the band in 1988 - was held in honour of the activist's 70th birthday at London's Wembley Stadium. It was watch by millions.
Ukutya Kwasekhaya - Tastes from Nelson Mandela's Kitchen
A direct translation of Ukutya Kwasekhaya is ‘food from home’ in isiXhosa. A title paying tribute to Madiba’s home language, the read was compiled by his personal chef - Xoliswa Ndoyiya and co-authored by PhD graduate, Anna Trapido. Ndoyiya worked for the late statesman from the early 1990s and served Madiba, his family as well as notable guests for up to two decades. According to publishing company, The Real African Publishers’ website - the book juxtaposes his simple tastes for traditional foods and love for Western dishes.