Gala livens sleepy Gutu

their backs) — came on foot, in cars and buses.
Some brought with them blankets, others heavy jackets that are otherwise ordinarily stashed away for cheeky weather, as the growth point reverberated into a frenzy of celebration, for, this was the first time such a gig had been held at their doorstep.
The Heroesplush, a once-off music extravaganza proved, to be more than a music extravaganza with several spin-offs than one.
Firstly, despite all the negative talk about Mupandawana as a thriving hub for anti-social activities, the growthpoint gained some glow before, during and after hosting the Heroesplush.
For once, Mupandawana was full of life and exuberance.
Imagine, with only three accommodation facilities — the Paradise Motel, Pagomo Lodge and Madondo Hotel — some people were generous enough to let out some of their rooms for visitors who came all the way from Harare, Masvingo and other surrounding areas.
Secondly, Mupandawana successfully hosted people from different cultures and backgrounds on one stage.
There were no incidents of violence whether political or otherwise.
Understandably, the merry mood existed before, during and after the Heroesplush.
It was little wonder then that even people in the mould of Dr Paul Chimedza, the Zimpapers board chairman, would be among the hundreds of music fans that thronged Makombo Grounds to pay homage to the heroes and heroines of Zimbabwe’s independence.
Energy was high on stage as over 30 performing artistes among them Alick Macheso, Nicholas Zakaria, Gift Amuli, Cde Chinx, Tambaoga, Real Sounds, Born Free Crew, Leonard Zhakata, Progress Chipfumo, Jah Prayzah and Somandla Ndebele to mention, but a few thrilled the crowds.
In terms of business, the Heroesplush brought value to some local enterprising individuals who seized the opportunity to make a bit of cash.
However, what was more significant was that the Heroesplush brought together Zimbabweans from all walks of life to commemorate their heroes and heroines.