Mahadi-Lobola is a South African reality television series that follows families as they negotiate lobola: one of the oldest and most complicated African traditions, the intricacies of which are always kept secret.
The series showcases both the complex and celebratory processes in which different cultures in South Africa participate during the lobola negotiations.
For many couples, Mahadi legitimises their marital commitment and lies at the heart of the unification of their bloodlines. The concept of Mahadi has always been a closely-kept secret, known primarily to those who have been part of the negotiations.
Each episode introduces the bride and groom as well other contributing characters in their lives including uncles, aunts, mothers and fathers. We follow them as negotiations take place, with family members sometimes bantering over the value of the lobola, women preparing the feasts and the outcome in the end.
With a more curious and slightly detached younger generation, the series reveals the cultural nuances that unfold in real life situations. Each story reflects the diverse demographics of South Africa and explores the varied ways in which different families undertake lobola negotiations.
Mahadi-Lobola is produced by Urban Brew Studios.