6 Kings and 6 Queens
The sudden passing of Balobedu Rain Queen Modjadji VI in 2005 signalled the end of the 200-year-old dynasty of female rulers; the only matrilineal monarch in Africa.
For over 200 years, the Balobedu Kingdom in South Africa has been led by female monarchs known as the Rain Queens. However, upon the passing of Queen Modjadji IV in 2005, a question of succession emerged. In a captivating documentary by filmmaker Molatelo Bossman, the film chronicles the fierce succession battle within the Balobedu Kingdom between Queen Masalanabo Modjadji, the rightful heir, and her brother, Prince Lekukela Modjadji, as they both contend for the throne. With the royal family and council divided on who should lead, and further concerns raised by the involvement of Dr. Mathole Motshekga, who fostered Masalanabo after her mother’s death and is accused of hijacking the throne for his own gain, the documentary casts an eye into the world of power and political legacy. Through years of footage, including coronations, rainmaking rituals, and court battles, 6 Kings and 6 Queens examines a legacy on the line.
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