Endear yourself to the in-laws with a rocking chair

Nov 07, 2008

ROCKING chairs have become the in-thing at many introduction ceremonies. A kwanjula without this chair to the Bakos (in-laws) is no kwanjula.

By Jude Katende

ROCKING chairs have become the in-thing at many introduction ceremonies. A kwanjula without this chair to the Bakos (in-laws) is no kwanjula.

Although there are other gifts taken, the rocking chair has recently “stolen the show” with many in-laws asking for it.
But why the fad?

Some people say the chair gives the owner a feel-good attitude of, “Oh yeah! I have given away my daughter, let me relax.” And the owner will do this while swaying back and forth.

Mike Sebusolo, a spokesperson at kwanjulas says the chair is ideal for someone who has seen his children through school. “For one without any major worries, his children have been educated, but needs to relax while listening to radio, this chair will do.”

Ssebusolo adds this gift should not be abused by giving the chair to anybody without authority.

James Kambugu, also a kwanjula spokesperson notes that it is popular because many people use it to show respect to the father of the bride.

He, however, said although the kwanjula tradition has changed, with some parties promising cars, the rocking chair is a good gift devoid of excesses and has a meaning.

Kambugu cautions: “One should find out whether or not they have the chair. It is more important if one gets a gift that is missing at home.”

Although the chair could be used as a Mutwalo (special present), Kambugu says one may give the Mutwalo and the chair if they so please.

Most furniture marts sport these chairs in different sizes. From marts in Kawempe to Kampala Road, the prices vary depending on the type of wood used and where one is buying from.

Dan Kabirigo, a carpenter at Kibuye says prices range from about sh180,000 to sh350,000. Asked about the high prices, Kabirigo quipped that “Mwami akooye”(let the man relax) is not a joking matter.

He however noted that some places hike the price to sh500,000 or sh600,000 especially those with fancy marts in the city. Some get the chairs from downtown places and sell them expensively in the city.

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