Heritage Day, King Shaka, Desmond Tutu and, er, Jan Braai

What do Shaka Zulu, Desmond Tutu and Jan Braai have in common?

National Heritage Day of course!

Today all of South Africa celebrates Heritage Day, but it's now also known as National Braai Day and if you know any Saffers (South Africans), you'll know we need no second invitation to burn some meat on a fire!

If you're wondering what the deal is with this most welcome but somewhat confusing holiday, and asking yourself "How did Heritage Day come into existence, and where does braaing come into the picture?" and "Why is there a picture of King Shaka on this page?" then read on...



Here’s the skinny – thanks to Wikipedia…

In previous years, in KwaZulu-Natal, the 24th of September was known as Shaka Day, in commemoration of the legendary Zulu King.

Then along came The Public Holidays Bill which was presented to the Parliament of South Africa - 24th of September was not on the list of proposed public holidays.

The Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), a South African political party with a large Zulu membership, was not happy about the exclusion and objected strongly to the bill. Parliament and the IFP reached a compromise and the day was given its present title and seen as a day

“...when South Africans celebrate the diverse cultural heritage that makes up a "rainbow nation". It is the day to celebrate the contribution of all South Africans to the building of South Africa”

Since 2005 the holiday has been re-branded as National Braai Day, in recognition of the South African culinary tradition of holding informal backyard barbecues, or braais. SA’s favourite bishop, Desmond Tutu, is the patron of this initiative which, in 2007, received the endorsement of South Africa's National Heritage Council.

Jan Braai is the poster boy for National Braai Day and has become somewhat of a household name around these parts.

Check out this website for more on Jan Braai, Tutu and plenty of braai recipes and tips.

Source of this story: here

What I am doing today?? Well, since my braai master is not home and on a business trip to Europe, I am going to see Gordon Ramsey and some other international great chefs at the Coca-Cola dome to see and taste their specialties.

What are your plans for today??
Mireille xx