By Mkhokheli Zibengwa
The Bulawayo arts industry has been plunged into mourning following the untimely passing of legendary dancer, actor, and musician Ishmael Muvingi, popularly known as Litshe.
He was 46 years old.
The talented artist and Umkhathi Theatre Works member breathed his last on Sunday evening.
Umkhathi Theatre Director Matesu Dube confirmed the news, saying that the cause of his death is not yet established.
Condolence messages have begun pouring in, with many describing the late artist as humble, talented, and dedicated to his craft.
The Bulawayo arts community has come together to pay tribute to Litshe, sharing stories and memories of his remarkable life and career.
Here are just a few of the countless condolence messages flooding social media:
Intwasa Arts Festival director Raisedon Baya said, "Ishmael, how and why? Saturday you were fine and jovial. Then, just like that. Make it make sense! Anyway, rest easy, my guy."
"I am in tears. Why did it happen this week when we were all looking forward to Arts In Education Festival? Ishmael Muvingi, without you, Bayethe Nkosi and Ihloka are not possible. Just like that. You must have given us a sign. I am devastated. If it is true, rest in peace," said Centre for Talent Development (CTD) Coordinator Thabani Moyo.
"Rest in peace, Ishmael Muvingi, a hard worker is gone, a happy soul has rested. Life and the arts will never be the same. So long, my member," said Umkhathi Theatre Works Director Matesu Dube in a post.
"We can't even bury our heroes, all we can say are RIPs from thousands of miles away. This life is shit sometimes. You just pained me today, bro. What you gave to me, Ray, Hebson, when we were at junior level will always remain in our hearts. You gave us a chance to be better and focused youth. Nurtured our talents and gave us opportunities that many wouldn't have otherwise given to us.
My heart goes to son, Nyasha. I hope you know that your dad is well-respected in the arts fraternity; he's my hero and one for many other artists. Condolences to the Muvingi family. Argh, Ishu, bro, come on now," said Njube Giant, Bruce Ncube.
"Yeah, I'm deeply sad and heartbroken by the passing on of Ishmael Muvingi, widely known as Litshe, Stone, uSamanyanga usaNyasha. I have a lot of stories to tell about him, especially about him being my on-screen husband in a number of productions, including radio plays, notably EzakoMkhakha that we shot in Harare some years back, loLeonard Phiri uKezito. Engumfundisi mina ngingumkakhe umamfundisi. Saba sonke njalo ku-drama ethi Amanxeba as husband and wife. As the arts fraternity silahlekelwe by a very talented performer. Sikhala ndawonye lemuli lezihlobo zakhe. Ngithi lala ngokuthula qhawe."
Litshe's contributions to the arts scene in Bulawayo and beyond have left an indelible mark, inspiring countless young artists and entertaining audiences with his unique blend of talent and passion.
As the community gathers to pay their respects at house number 3011 Emakhandeni near Maunga shops, we say goodbye to a true legend and bid farewell to a shining star in the Bulawayo arts firmament.
