MIXED FEELINGS OVER LUJU FESTIVAL

MALKERNS - The sixth edition of the Standard Bank Luju Food and Lifestyle Festival left a lasting impression on its attendees, whether good or bad.  

While some voiced their concerns, many revelled in the diverse offerings of culinary delights and fashion, capturing the essence of this unique gathering. As the festival drew to a close, it was evident that, despite the varying opinions, the spirit of Luju had left an indelible mark on all who had experienced its magic. Despite this, some attendees expressed dissatisfaction with the choice of music, highlighting that slow sounds, which were played earlier on Friday, should have been more upbeat for Saturday’s festivities.

Choice

Ncobile Mkhumane, who was with her family all the way from Nelspruit in Mpumalanga, South Africa, highlighted that the choice of music which was slow sounds that was chosen for early on Friday should have been played more on Saturday as people departed. Friday was the day when they wanted to party and let loose. Her husband, Vukizi further said they were in the kingdom for the MTN Bushfire Festival and the arrangement of the type of music selected for each day made sense to them. When asked about what they would have possibly changed for their pleasure, they mentioned how they would have saved the DJs for the evenings and the musicians like Simphiwe Dana for the daytime.

Additionally, some attendees felt that the festival had returned too soon to the same venue, with one individual stating, ‘In 2022, Luju came at the perfect time because we had a lengthy breather from the space and actually missed it, but this time it felt too soon.’ Fezile Masilela commented by saying: ‘‘In 2022, Luju came at the perfect time, because we had a lengthy breather from the space and actually missed it, but this time it felt too soon,’’ Masilela said. It is worth noting that in 2022, the event was hosted on September 30 and October 1.

Showcases

Her friends commented about the sound challenges on the Mastercard Stage and the Stella Artios Stage, mentioning that they even left some performances, as there were numerous sound challenges, especially on the Mastercard Stage.  The Mastercard Stage featured live music performances, culinary showcases and the Mastercard Luju Fashion Show, which showcased collections by regional designers from Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia and Namibia.  However, amid these concerns, others expressed their unwavering enthusiasm for the event, citing their enduring love for it since its inception.

One attendee, Notsi from Notsi Loves FF, described the festival as the top event on her list, combining her passion for fashion and food, making the venue her little heaven. Similar sentiments, which were similar to those of Notsi were captured, festival-goers indicating the expansion of the food and fashion stall. This to the fans was an indication that the festival respected the theme that they had built the festival on.

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