The death of South Africa’s national ballet hero, Johaar Mosaval, brought the country to a respectful stillness. He passed away this morning, the 16th of August at the age of 95.
The Dancer’s Legacy
Not only did Johaar bring his fierce passion to the arts, but also his exquisite pirouettes and nimble movements. This legendary performer passed away in the company of family and friends. According to his nephew, Suleiman Mosaval: “He passed peacefully in his sleep.”
Fatima Solomon, his niece, recalled on his final days: “Before his hospitalisation, he engaged passionately with everyone around him. Nonetheless, he felt tired as the days went on.
A Craze All Over the World
The dancer has an inspiring backstory, as he rose from humble beginnings to perform on stages around the world. As the Royal Ballet of England’s lead dancer, his feet were regularly seen on the world’s most prestigious stages. The iconic 1956 solo at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation will live on forever. But it wasn’t only about the big stages he danced on; it was also about the barriers he shattered.
Diana Ferrus, a writer, said that despite the difficulties of living in South Africa during apartheid, “Johaar chased his dreams, excelling and marking his spot as a global ballet sensation.” What will be remembered of him? This is much more than just dancing; it takes a lot of determination.
In a tribute to Mosaval, the man responsible for bringing Johaar’s story to the stage, Basil Appollis, said, “Meeting him was a lesson in humility. As a dancer, he aimed for excellence, but as a person, he was graceful and unassuming.
The crowd was tremendously moved by Johaar’s story of perseverance. Basil reflects, “It was difficult to write the play. Johaar’s life consisted of so many facets that condensing it into 90 minutes was challenging. The excitement, though, came from Johaar’s approbation. The homage meant a lot to him.
An Honour for the Nation
Western Cape Minister of Culture and Sport Anroux Marais spoke for many when she said, “Johaar was a beacon throughout a tumultuous period in South African history. His capacity for making the most of international possibilities is unparalleled. Despite his lack of fame during the apartheid era, his legacy lives on.
“Johaar was more than just a dancer,” DA MPP’s Gillion Bosman observed. He personified toughness and variety. We look forward to seeing how the District Six Museum preserves his legacy for future generations.
The Artscape Theatre Centre, which earlier this year presented a play on Mosaval, shared their thoughts: “He was our living legend.” What he leaves as a legacy is a story of optimism, perseverance, and raw talent. Quite simply, he was a precious gem.
Johaar Mosaval stood tall and firm in a world where popularity is ephemeral, and his legacy will continue to inspire people for years to come. Through his actions, he proved that limitations are designed to be pushed and that it is possible to achieve even the most audacious goals. The people of South Africa pay tribute to this legendary performer.
