By Elmon Tshikudo and Ngerezah Netshifhefhe
Award-winning musician Ndivhudzannyi "Makhadzi" Ralivhona is set to make a triumphant return to the Phalaphala FM Royal Heritage Festival in 2025, after her surprise omission last year had sparked widespread disappointment among fans. However, her much-anticipated comeback has now been overshadowed by controversy over how she is depicted on the official promotional poster.
The 2025 festival will be preceded by a gospel and family day on 6 September and will culminate in the main event on 13 September at the Royal Gardens at Nandoni Dam, outside Thohoyandou. This year's lineup includes a diverse mix of talent such as DJ Maphorisa, Rebecca Malope, Nkosazana Daughter, Colbert Mukwevho, Zozo of Sengere Superbeat fame, and Khakhathi Murida.
Makhadzi's inclusion in the lineup was formally announced during an artist reveal held at Spar Mutsindo Mall on Friday, 1 August. The event was attended by local dignitaries, including Thulamela Mayor Sarah Rambuda, Thovhele Gole Mphaphuli, SABC officials, representatives from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, and Royal Gardens chairperson Mr Shandukani Nesengani.
Festivalgoers were elated by her return, especially after her exclusion in 2024 — reportedly over payment disagreements — prompted her to stage two successful shows in Vuwani and Western on the same night as the festival. This time around, Makhadzi said she had accepted a negotiated fee from the organisers as a gesture of goodwill and commitment to her fans.
"I still remember in 2023 they paid me what I had not charged them after they indicated financial constraints as a result of Covid. In 2024, they still wanted to offer me the same amount, which I refused. This year, I received a call from the organisers and we settled the score and agreed on the performance fee, whereupon they paid me a deposit," she said.
But shortly after the lineup was unveiled, Makhadzi publicly criticised the festival poster, claiming her image had been placed in a corner and her name printed in a font too small to be legible — a move she described as a deliberate attempt to belittle her.
"I know my worth and have worked very hard to be where I am. My fans were very upset about the poster, and I also expressed my discomfort about it. They told me it was a mistake, but I take it as deliberate," Makhadzi said during a live broadcast on 4 August.
The singer demanded an apology and a revised version of the poster. "They must treat me according to who I am," she said in an earlier social-media post. "I have worked hard to build this brand. This is long overdue."
Online reaction has been mixed, with some fans rallying behind her and others accusing her of overreacting. The row escalated when Makhadzi threatened to pull out of the festival if the poster was not corrected. She also hinted that she would rather focus on launching her new album and preparing for her two-day One-Woman Show in December.
This year's edition of the One-Woman Show, scheduled for 20 and 21 December at Makhuvha and Rabali stadiums respectively, is set to be the biggest yet. Headline acts include Shandesh, Mickeyblack, DJ Zinhle, Somizi and Noncebo Zikhode, with more names to be announced. First launched in 2024 as a response to her exclusion from the festival, the event has since grown into a polished, high-profile showcase of local talent — and a statement of independence from the star.
Despite the fallout, the Royal Heritage Festival has yet to issue a formal apology. However, in a statement, festival chairperson Mr Shandukani Nesengani denied any intent to disrespect the artist. "As the organisers, we want to make it very clear that we have the highest respect for all artists. We are fully committed to treating them with the dignity and recognition they deserve. It has never been our intention – and it will never be – to undermine or disrespect any artist in any way," he said. "We believe in unity, working together, and supporting one another. We truly love and appreciate all artists, and we always strive to ensure that they are treated fairly and professionally at all times."
While the issue remains unresolved, observers note that Makhadzi has again turned controversy into opportunity. Her firm stance on respect and recognition continues to resonate, especially among fans who see her as a symbol of self-made success and rural talent breaking through.
What began as a dispute over design may yet prove to be another defining moment in Makhadzi's rising influence as both a performer and a cultural entrepreneur.