Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
THERE was not a dry eye in the house when ‘‘Ndinotondera Calvary’’ was first performed at last year’s Celestial Chorus.
Now the powerful hymn is finally here.
After weeks of social media hype and growing anticipation, Zimbabwean gospel stars Everton Mlalazi and Sharon Cherayi have officially dropped the much-awaited track today and fans are already going wild online.
The song, which became one of the standout moments at the previous Celestial Chorus gathering, struck a deep emotional chord, with many in the audience visibly moved, some even breaking down in tears as the hymn filled the auditorium.
Clips from that performance have since been circulating on social media, building momentum and demand for an official release and now, the wait is finally over.
“I am in awe. Surprisingly, the song is coming out just after my birthday yesterday,” said Cherayi.
“Already social media is agog with the song. I grew up listening to Seventh-day Adventist hymns, and when the music director told me I would be part of it, I was excited because it speaks deeply to me.”
The hymn’s release is being hailed as a major moment for gospel lovers, blending nostalgia with a fresh, contemporary sound that continues to resonate across generations.
And just as the song takes over timelines, all roads now lead to South Africa.
The Celestial Chorus is heading to Carnival City, where Mlalazi being the music director will lead a massive regional showcase that is already generating buzz. The show is not just another concert but it is a cross-border gospel explosion bringing together some of the biggest names in Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Sharing the stage will be heavyweights such as Dumi Mkokstad and Mthunzi Namba, alongside Zimbabwean stars including Rudo Mdindi, Tawanda Midzi, Natasha Mlalazi, Petronella Sengwayo, Janet Manyowa and Canaan Nyathi.
With a 100-piece orchestra and free entry, the event is expected to draw thousands in what promises to be a historic night of worship.
Mlalazi says the vision goes beyond music.
“This event is more than music. It’s a gathering that unites nations and serves one cause, which is to praise and worship God,” he said.
“We have a star-studded line-up of ministers who will lead in praise and worship.”
For fans, the timing couldn’t be better, a trending anthem dropping just days before a major regional concert. As Ndinotondera Calvary continues to dominate social media and stir emotions, the Celestial Chorus movement is clearly gaining unstoppable momentum. One thing is certain if the song is anything to go by, South Africa is in for a deeply moving, unforgettable gospel experience.
