The rich and diversified Culture of Lesotho is one of the key attractions of this independent nation. Most of the native inhabitants of Lesotho are Basotho who not only speak the national language Sesotho, but are very well versed in English language as well. Culture of Lesotho is largely synonymous with that of the Basotho people. This ethnic group is one of the very few African tribes that live in the mountains and have hence developed unique practices to adapt to their tough conditions.
One such example is the Basotho blanket that is woven in beautiful patterns and worn by people all year round. What adds to the versatility of this garment is the fact that it not only helps in fighting the cold but also helps in keeping the rain off. The village life forms the basic unit of Basotho culture and almost all the important traditions and festivals celebrated by these people relate to local village life and the seasonal cycle.
Culture of Lesotho: Social Fabric
The Basotho Villages are usually located at higher altitudes in the mountains. These villages are ideally situated on the mid-levels, at a considerable height above the deep river valleys. This location also helps these villages in evading the danger of floods that are a common natural hazard during rainy season.
The well planned lay out of these villages will surely impress you. The Basotho villages comprise of a number of kraals, i.e. a collection of buildings that belong to the same family. While some of these buildings are meant for sleeping, others serve the purpose of store room and kitchen. Each of these kraals also has an enclosure for livestock, especially the ponies that serve as an ideal form of transportation in the mountainous region. Each village is headed by a chief, or headman, who in turn falls under the chief for the area.
The Basotho society is an agricultural society. Hence, you will find a number of fields surrounding the Basotho villages. These fields are allocated to the villagers by the chief or the village head man. While passing through these villages, you will often come across a tall pole with a flag tied to it. This pole symbolizes a place of selling and buying.
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