Latest news with #Durban-born
IOL News
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Step into the vibrant world of Suvina Mahadaw: dance star, instructor and cultural dynamo
Suvina Mahadaw is living out her childhood dream, sharing the joy of Bollywood dance and South Asian culture with audiences across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. Image: Supplied Meet Suvina Mahadaw, a vibrant force on and off the dance floor. At 34, this Durban-born dancer, instructor and lifestyle content creator is living out her childhood dream, sharing the joy of Bollywood dance and South Asian culture with audiences across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond. We caught up with her to chat about her journey, passions and the meaning of dance in her life - fittingly during a year when more people than ever are looking to celebrate and connect through culture and movement. Mahadaw currently resides in the scenic coastal town of Ballito, but her story begins in Phoenix, Durban. 'I am originally from the beautiful Phoenix,' she said with pride. It's there that her love for Bollywood dance first took root. 'Growing up with Bollywood movies and music, my dream as a kid was to be like the Indian Bollywood actresses I saw on screen - watching them dance and wear all those beautiful outfits. That inspired my love for dance from as young as six.' Encouraged by her mother, Lekha Mahadaw, she was enrolled in dance classes where her journey officially began. Interestingly, Mahadaw's foundation spans two very different styles. 'I started learning ballet and Indian classical dance - Bharatanatyam - at the same time,' she recalled. Later, she expanded her repertoire at university to include jazz, contemporary, salsa and belly dance. 'I left ballet just before my pointe work, graduated in Bharatanatyam under Kumari Shiksha's Dance Institute, and even completed a one-year teacher's diploma.' Today, Mahadaw's choreography reflects this wide-ranging training. 'My choreography is a combination of various dance styles. Every form is beautiful in its own way. You will find belly-bolly (a mix of belly dance and Bollywood), hip hop Bollywood and salsa Bollywood for partner dances.' She also teaches a variety of classes tailored to different levels. 'There is BollyFit - a keep-fit class with Bollywood music for beginner dancers - and an advanced class for those who have danced before and want to perfect their style, expressions, and technique, often mixing genres to Bollywood songs. "Every Bollywood style is energetic, so you are definitely in for a workout.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ With years of experience under her belt, what stands out the most? For Mahadaw, every show is meaningful. 'Each event or performance is one for the books because it allows me to gain more experience than the last. It's always special when a client selects and trusts me and my team to entertain their family and guests.' But one milestone, "Dancing with the Legends 2" by Eastern Move Productions, holds a particularly cherished place in her heart. As a dance instructor, Mahadaw finds the greatest reward in seeing her students shine. 'Watching them perform on stage, seeing the joy on their faces - that's the best part.' She keeps her own inspiration flowing by paying attention to what is new. 'Thanks to TikTok and YouTube, there is a different trend almost every week. And sometimes, just going back to the basics is as amazing as chasing a trend.' When she is not teaching or performing, Mahadaw is busy building her lifestyle content. 'My life is extremely fun and exciting - I work in hospitality and entertainment. On my days off, I love doing something adventurous with friends and family, from 6am snorkelling on the North Coast to trying out new restaurants. I love sharing these experiences with my social media family,' she said. Balancing it all takes intention. 'It can get overwhelming, so I dedicate one day just for me to recuperate and recover. I also spend an hour each morning listening to music while getting ready for work. "I believe my energy is passed on to my team and students, so I must keep my spirits high.' As for her favourite self-care rituals? 'Going back to basics - enjoying a cup of coffee at the beach, a simple bubble bath or watching a feel-good movie.' For Suvina Mahadaw, Bollywood dance is more than just a performance. Image: Supplied For Mahadaw, Bollywood dance is more than just a performance. 'When you hear Bollywood dance, you feel the energy. It's the vibe, the music - it's a culture, a very positive culture on its own that automatically brings a smile to my face. If I hear a Bollywood song at a random event, I am instantly in a good mood,' she noted. Showcasing South Asian culture is also deeply important to her. When asked for her instant mood-boosting song, she laughed. 'Worst question to ask a dance instructor! Anything with a happy beat. But if I had to pick, it would be Toploader's 'Dancing in the Moonlight', or the classic Bollywood track 'Desi Girl (From 'Dostana')'.' She also lit up talking about style. 'I'm a huge fan of Indo-western outfits - gorgeous, easy to wear and mainly comfortable. I love how designer Masaba Gupta transforms simple outfits with Indian prints. Locally, I found a brand called The Desi Closet that sells outfits true to this vision.' If she weren't dancing? 'Well, dance is my passionate hobby. But I also fell in love with the hospitality industry at a young age. During the day, I run a beautiful breakfast restaurant in the heart of Ballito - and after hours, I'm spreading the Bollywood love,' said Mahadaw. Asked to name her ultimate Bollywood style icon, she said there are too many to count. But if she could perform with anyone, it would be her Bollywood idol, Shahid Kapoor. Most of all, Mahadaw is proud of the relationships her journey has cultivated. 'The friendships I've made over the years - even keeping in touch with the very first bridal couple I performed for, thanks to social media - that means everything.' Her advice to aspiring dancers? 'It's never too late to start. Many ladies my age tell me they missed the chance to learn dance when they were young. I always say: just begin. "And for young dancers, discipline is important, and consistency is key. It sounds cliché, but those two things will help you succeed in your own strengths.'
The Citizen
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Londie London sues Minnie Ntuli over reunion showdown
Real Housewives of Durban reality TV star and entrepreneur Londie London is suing KwaZulu-Natal radio host Gagasi FM's Minnie Ntuli after a fiery on-camera altercation during the Real Housewives of Durban reunion. In a legal letter posted on the singer's Instagram post, Londie's lawyers allege she was poked in the face. She was also verbally attacked by Ntuli. Now, the singer is demanding a recorded apology by the close of business on Wednesday, 16 July. Meanwhile, fans remain unimpressed by both Ntuli's actions and the station's attempts at damage control. Legal action Durban-born reality TV star and singer Londie London has fired off legal action against Gagasi FM presenter Minnie Ntuli. This comes after what her legal team describes as a humiliating and unprovoked confrontation during the filming of the Showmax Real Housewives of Durban reunion episode, which aired on Friday. According to a strongly worded letter sent by Lamula KB Attorneys, Londie, whose real name is Londiwe Siphiwokuhle Zulu, claims that Ntuli not only verbally disrespected her on camera but also physically poked her in the face. This reportedly occurred during the heated exchange recorded and aired on 11 July 2025. The moment, witnessed by the cast and crew, has sent shockwaves through the show's devoted fan base. It has also impacted the South African entertainment industry. The legal notice accuses Ntuli of launching an intentional character attack masked as TV hosting. It states that her commentary has been 'consistently defamatory' towards Londie throughout the reunion build-up. Despite public backlash, Ntuli posted a statement online to address the incident, but it failed to have an impact. Some RHOD viewers called the apology 'vague', 'defensive', and lacking 'real accountability'. Some fans even labelled it 'performative damage control'. Making matters worse, Gagasi FM issued a statement the next day that emphasised 'a focus on promoting reconciliation'. However, it notably stopped short of addressing the physical aspect of the incident. The station praised its presenter's professionalism and avoided placing any blame. Many online users saw this as an attempt to protect its brand rather than hold anyone accountable. Londie's legal team has dismissed both responses as inadequate and hollow. In their letter, they demand a formal, recorded apology video from Minnie Ntuli by 5pm on Wednesday. Failing that, Londie plans to pursue further legal action for defamation, emotional distress, and assault. ALSO READ:Khanyi Mbau jets off to Los Angeles for Netflix Reality Universe Superlatives 'Corporate PR can't fix this,' a netizen said in reaction. 'What happened on camera wasn't just embarrassing, it was a line crossed.' While fellow cast member Jojo Robinson wrote on Londie's Instagram post, 'Love that you give her the opportunity to make it right. And if she chooses not to, take it further.' Londie's lawyers have also advised Gagasi FM that all future correspondence must go through them. They emphasised that they are prepared to pursue full legal remedies on behalf of their client. With RHOD fans still reeling and Minnie remaining tight-lipped following her lukewarm statement, all eyes are now on whether a public apology video will surface. Otherwise, this may escalate into a courtroom drama.
The South African
15-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Kaizer Chiefs: Chislett ready to play the 'Steven Gerrard role'
Kaizer Chiefs new midfielder Ethan Chislett, is eager to play in front of the Amakhosi supporters later this month. The 26-year-old is currently with the team in the Netherlands for their pre-season camp. Having joined the club in June, the Durban-born midfielder will for the first time in his career, play football in his birth country. 'I appreciate creativity, but the bottom line is you have to score goals to win games,' Chislett said as per FARPost . 'I'd like to think I can rise to the occasion when called upon to make a decisive contribution for my team, and that's what motivates me.' Chislett will be in action in Amakhosi for the first time at home later this month against Asante Kotoko SC in the Toyota Cup. The 26-year-old will play in front of his hometown at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday, 26 July. 'It will probably be surreal. It's something I'll look back on. Sometimes when you're in the moment, you don't take everything in, but afterwards it will fully sink in,' said the Kaizer Chiefs new man. 'I came to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup and watched a match in that stadium, so it's going to be unreal for me, and my family, to play there.' Upon signing for Kaizer Chiefs, Chislett was described as a 'Steven Gerrard-like' type of midfielder. He is a creative player with an eye for goal and can also help defensively, according to his former teammates in England. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
14-07-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
New Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Ethan Chislett poised for emotional return to Durban
Ethan Chislett, Kaizer Chiefs' new midfield signing, will make an emotional return to Durban when he features in the Toyota Cup at Moses Mabhida Stadium. Photo: Kaizer Chiefs on X Image: Kaizer Chiefs on X It will be a surreal homecoming for Durban-born Ethan Chislett, Kaizer Chiefs' new midfielder, when the club participates in the Toyota Cup in Durban later this month. When the talented 26-year-old runs out onto the hallowed turf of Moses Mabhida Stadium, it will not only be as a player for one of South Africa's most storied clubs, but as a son returning to his roots. Chiefs take on Ghanaian heavyweights Asante Kotoko SC in the upcoming second edition of the Toyota Cup, and it promises to be a poignant moment for Chislett. At six-years olf, Chislett emigrated with his family from Durban to the UK, where he forged an impressive career in the lower tiers of the English Football League, most recently helping Port Vale to promotion into League One for the 2024/25 season. Now, he returns to his land of birth to get a first taste of domestic Mzansi-style football, after leaving Port Vale at the end of his contract and being snapped up by Chiefs. Speaking about possibly playing at Moses Mabhida, Chislett told 'It will probably be surreal. "It is something I will look back on. Sometimes, when you are in the moment, you do not take everything in, but afterwards, it will fully sink in. I came to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup and watched a match in that stadium, so it's going to be unreal for me, and my family, to play there.' Chislett has all the attributes to become a vital cog in Chiefs' ambitious vision for the coming season, describing himself as a 'versatile midfielder – can sit deep, play further forward, and wide right – even striker a few times, although more in a 'false 9' role. I like to cut in from the left onto my right foot, but if I had to define my best position, it would be a 'number 10'.' He is experienced enough to know that pretty football alone is not enough. 'I appreciate creativity, but the bottom line is you have to score goals to win games. I will try to rise to the occasion when called upon to make a decisive contribution to my team, and that motivates me.' Chislett is quick to acknowledge the hospitality he has received since arriving at his new 'home' at Naturena, the club's headquarters south of Johannesburg. He is currently with the Soweto Giants on their 12-day tour of the Netherlands, where they will be playing five friendlies. 'Joining a new club is never the easiest thing in the world. You must adapt,' he admits, before adding, 'But since I joined, everyone has been amazing, and I am so happy here. This is why I love South Africa; everyone smiles, and I am fitting in. Credit to my new teammates and the management staff for welcoming me so warmly.' Although the player concedes a lack of deep familiarity with his new surroundings and the culture of local football, he is hungry to absorb as much as he can as soon as possible, stating: 'It's an exciting time for me, and I am looking to attack these challenges head-on.'
The South African
08-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
'He needs to perform': Ex-Newcastle star warns Chiefs new man
Former Newcastle United winger Nikodimos Papavasiliou says Kaizer Chiefs' new midfielder Ethan Chislett needs to be mentally tough and adapt. The 26-year-old midfielder signed for Amakhosi after spending his entire footballing career in Europe. Although he has played in lower leagues, his previous coaches and teammates described him as a playmaker with an eye for goal. Papavasiliou said Chislett would need time to adapt and advised the Durban-born footballer to perform immediately. Chiefs have struggled for results in recent years, failing to finish inside the top 8. 'What I know is that League One is physical and tough considering the number of games they play there,' Papavasiliou, told KickOff. 'You can find good players in those leagues (League One and League Two). 'But with this player (Chislett), he will need time to adapt to the football here in Africa. This will depend on his quality, but Kaizer Chiefs is a big club, and he will need to perform immediately. 'The question is can he handle the pressure? You need to be mentally tough at big clubs. I'm sure once he is past the stage of adapting, then he will enjoy,' he added. 'What I have noticed is that the game in South Africa is at a higher level, having also watched Mamelodi Sundowns at the Club World Cup. I really liked them because they were playing and went there to play their way,' he concluded. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
