Celebrate Braai Day with quintessential South African flair
When celebrating Braai Day this year, add those quintessential South African elements that make us who we are to your day, and be sure to always celebrate with pride.
This Braai Day, celebrate what it means to be South African.
“Being South African is seen as an honour to everyone lucky enough to grow up in a country that embraces diverse cultures and provides us with an official day to celebrate who we are as a nation,” commented Bronwyn Ragavan, brand manager for proudly South African product Chemico.
When it comes to Braai Day, there is nothing better than bringing out the braai, inviting friends and family over, and enjoying the warm spring weather. Even better, this year the Rugby World Cup will be taking place at the same time… rugby, braai, family and friends, what could be more quintessentially South African?
Bronwyn added that as with every country, there are unique elements that can only be attributed to South Africa and its people, and it’s these attributes that are celebrated on Braai Day.
She pointed out the following eight qualities that make us uniquely South African:
• No matter the occasion, South Africans will always celebrate with a braai. A braai is not only about cooking food but is also seen in South Africa as an occasion for family and friends to spend time together.
• Biltong is a form of dried and cured meat that is loved by most South Africans – especially on occasions such as Braai Day. A common snack for any time of the day, biltong originated in South Africa and is currently making a name for itself in various parts of the world.
• Another South African originated dish is the Bunny chow. Created by the Indian South Africans in Durban, Bunny Chow is enjoyed and personalised throughout the whole of South Africa.
• No other country can say that they have 12 official languages. For many years South Africa has boasted about eleven official languages, but in July 2023 it was announced that sign language would be added as South Africa’s twelfth official language.
• The big five is a favourite among South Africans and tourists. Boasting some of the most beautiful wildlife and scenery in the world, it is no wonder that South Africa is visited for its animals, its people and its views.
• South Africans have taken the English language and made it their own. Nowhere else in the world, other than in South Africa will someone know the difference between “now”, “now now” and “just now”.
• Ubuntu is a Nguni Bantu term meaning humanity and is sometimes translated as “I am because we are”. This is a philosophy that South Africans strive to work towards while living in a multicultural country. It is not always easy, but the spirit of Ubuntu is still felt.
• Music is an important part of South African culture, and with our mix of cultures it is no wonder that we have our own distinct sounds. Genres such as Amapiano and Kwaito, or dance moves such as Patsula have all originated due to the unique sounds our country has to offer.
