Sjava Opens Up About His Homestead’s Name ‘Kwabashesha’ & Its Heartfelt Meaning. Renowned South African artist Sjava recently shared a touching backstory about the name of his homestead, ‘Kwabashesha,’ during an interaction on social media.
The conversation began when a user expressed curiosity about the tradition of naming homesteads in Zulu culture, citing examples like KwaDakwadunuse, KwaPhindangene, and KwaKhethomthandayo. The user admitted to finding these names both amusing and intriguing.
Sjava’s response, however, brought a deeper and more emotional perspective to the conversation. He explained that his mother named their homestead ‘Kwabashesha,’ which is short for ‘Basheshe Bahleka’—translated as “They laughed quickly.”
He revealed that the name was born from hardship, as people would mock them for not having a home. However, Sjava has now been able to build a home for his family, an achievement that brings joy and pride to his mother.
“Nkosi ngiyabonga ukuthi ukwazile ukungipha amandla ngikwazi ukuvusa umuzi kababa kunini ngiloku ngizabalaza. Manje nami senginekhaya ujabulile umama. Uthi ukuzala ukuzelula. Basheshe bahleka,” Sjava wrote reciting lyrics from his song “Ngiyabonga”, expressing gratitude to God for giving him the strength to rebuild his father’s homestead.
The name, which once symbolized ridicule, has now become a testament to resilience, perseverance, and triumph over adversity. Sjava’s heartfelt revelation resonated deeply with his fans, many of whom praised him for his transparency and resilience.
Sjava’s journey from being laughed at for not having a home to now owning and proudly naming one is a powerful narrative that continues to inspire his audience. It’s a testament to turning pain into purpose—a theme that often resonates through most of his music.
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