Swaziland's most well-known cultural event is the annual Umhlanga Reed Dance. In the eight-day ceremony, girls cut reeds and present them to the queen mother and then dance. (There is no formal competition.) It is done in late August or early September. Only childless, unmarried girls can take part. The aims of the ceremony are to preserve girls' chastity, provide tribute labour for the Queen mother, and to encourage solidarity by working together. The royal family appoints a commoner maiden to be "induna" (captain) of the girls and she announces over the radio the dates of the ceremony. She will be an expert dancer and knowledgeable on royal protocol. One of the King's daughters will be her counterpart.
What is the most widely known event in Swazi culture? How long is the Umhlanga Reed Dance? During what time of year is the Umhlanga Reed Dance? What individuals can take part in the Umhlanga Reed Dance? As it relates to girls, what is the purpose of the Umhlanga Reed Dance?