Legendary Sungura Icon Nicholas ‘Madzibaba’ Zakaria Laid to Rest in Chiweshe Amid Muslim Rites, Women Barred from Burial!
The Senior Lecturer Laid to Rest
Nicholas "Madzibaba" Zakaria, the Godfather of Sungura, was laid to rest yesterday at Chavhakaira Village in Chiweshe. In a move that has sparked widespread debate across the nation, the music icon was buried strictly according to Muslim rites, barring women from the gravesite and dismantling the casket before interment.
Strict Traditions Observed
Village elders and family members meticulously adhered to traditional Muslim burial rites, ensuring that the ceremony honored both faith and cultural heritage. Every step of the process was conducted with reverence, highlighting the profound respect for the late Nicholas "Madzibaba" Zakaria.
WOMEN BARRED
The Gravesite
Despite being a significant portion of Madzibaba's loyal fan base, women were not allowed at the gravesite. The elders emphasized that this restriction was in line with strict Islamic burial protocol, which governs who can be present during certain rites. This decision sparked widespread discussion among fans and the community.
NO CASKET
White Cloth
Following Muslim customs, Madzibaba’s body was not buried in a traditional casket. Instead, the casket was removed, and he was laid to rest wrapped solely in a white cloth, symbolizing purity and humility. Elders guided the burial to ensure every practice aligned with religious tradition, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of the ceremony.
COMMUNITY REVERENCE
Honoring a Legend
The ceremony drew notable musicians, protégés, and community leaders who paid tribute to Madzibaba’s profound influence on the Zimbabwean music industry. Elders led prayers and rituals, emphasizing his legacy as both a musical icon and a pillar of cultural heritage.
LEGACY & INFLUENCE
A Musical Icon
Madzibaba’s impact went beyond music; he was a mentor to emerging artists and a symbol of professionalism in the industry. His funeral highlighted the enduring respect he commanded and served as a reminder of his transformative role in shaping Zimbabwean Sungura music for generations.
Madzibaba vs. Muslim
The burial has raised eyebrows regarding his famous stage name, "Madzibaba," a title almost exclusively associated with the Apostolic (Masowe) faith in Zimbabwe.
Many fans assumed he was an Apostle, but the burial confirmed his lifelong devotion to Islam. As one social media user noted, "We should have called him Madzichawa instead."
Social Media Buzz
Confusion and debate erupted online as videos of the burial circulated.
@Tafadzwa Kadigo: "I thought Madzibaba was a Christian and not Muslim."
@Benjamin Zondo: "Saka huMadzibaba wacho hwaiva hwekunakidzwa chete? Woti ndiri Mupostori, woti ndiri Moslem?" (So the Madzibaba title was just for fun? You say you are an Apostle, then say you are Muslim?)
@Ba Kendrick Jay: "Makuriwani vaive Madzibaba vari Muslim futi?" (Where did you find a Madzibaba who is also Muslim?)
@Mpumelelo Ndebele: "Ndiyo nguva yekutanga yandakaona mariro akadai. Kudzidza hakuperi. Rest well sir." (This is the first time I have seen such a burial. Learning never ends.)
Macheso's Grief
THE PROTÉGÉ
Alick Macheso
One of Zakaria's biggest successes, Macheso described him as a father figure. "Words are not enough to express the grief I carry," he said, cementing Madzibaba’s legacy as a beacon of professionalism and mentorship.
Rest In Peace, Senior Lecturer
Madzibaba Zakaria’s story is not just one of personal achievement, but a narrative of community, growth, and the enduring power of mentorship.
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