Veteran actor, director and writer Dr John Kani joined other living legends in the Van Toeka AF series and has received his flowers for the role he played in the South African Arts field.
The fifth edition of the Van Toeka AF Living Legends recognition series took place at the Market Theatre in Newtown, Johannesburg on Wednesday.
The multi award-winning actor, who also celebrated his 80th birthday on the day, said he was honoured by the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture for the tribute.
“I am so happy to have met the minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Zizi Kodwa, I had a moment to talk to you, trying to get where your heart is. I want to work with him, to realise the dream I have for the field,” he said.
Reminiscing on the hardships he has had to endure during the apartheid era as an actor, Kani said his life has always been interesting.
“I was arrested for performing Sizwe Banzi is dead, I was attacked and left with 11 stab wounds, they were certain they had killed me after that. I was discharged from hospital from there I went to Lusaka with patches on my face because I had to shoot a movie.
“We have a responsibility to partner with government to industrialise the arts, it cannot be a side job because you do not want to do Bachelor of Science, it must be an industry that I can tell my children that if they got into it, they would make money and live well,” said Kani.
Kani said he would retire when the arts become a business like in Hollywood, England, and London.
Minister Kodwa said Kani continues to challenge those who are in power, including himself.
“Kani made a great contribution in the liberation of his country and he continues to be a conscious of the nation as he keeps challenging those who are in power. I look forward to seeing more artists through your teachings and mentorships become business people.
“I admire not only your talent, but the respect you have for your craft. We acknowledge your contribution in our cultural heritage,” minister Kodwa said.
Speaking about his father, actor Atandwa Kani thanked him for his teachings, time, sacrifices and most importantly, his love.
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