
Inside the Drama: Why Thuli Phongolo’s Family Is Fuming Over DJ Maphorisa—And The Truth Behind The Lobola Money
Thuli Phongolo, a name synonymous with glitz and glamour in South Africa’s entertainment industry, has found herself at the center of a public storm—one that has pitted her family against her former partner, DJ Maphorisa, and thrown open the doors to intimate family secrets.
What started as a simple relationship between two celebrities has now evolved into a saga of wealth, loyalty, and the mysterious fate of a large lobola payment.
The family’s recent public defense of Thuli has left fans and critics alike questioning what really happened between her and DJ Maphorisa, and why the issue of money seems to overshadow everything else.
The latest wave of controversy broke out when Thuli’s family went public, firmly asserting that DJ Maphorisa “did nothing for her.”
This statement, brief but loaded, ignited a flurry of comments and speculation online.
Many were quick to point out the apparent contradiction: if Thuli comes from a wealthy family, why does she reportedly buy groceries for them every month? Is her family truly as affluent as claimed, or is there more to the story?
The debate rages on, with some commenters suggesting that the family is simply trying to protect their reputation, while others believe Thuli is the real breadwinner, supporting relatives who have grown dependent on her success.
At the heart of this drama lies the contentious issue of lobola—the traditional bride price paid by the groom’s family.

In Thuli and Maphorisa’s case, the lobola was not a small sum; rumors suggest it was substantial, and even more intriguingly, that it may have been used to fund a business venture rather than serve its intended cultural purpose.
According to some sources, the lobola money was invested in student accommodation, a move that has sparked even more questions. Was this a joint decision?
Did Thuli’s family benefit directly, or was this an independent investment by Maphorisa? The lack of clarity has only fueled further speculation, with some viewers accusing the family of misusing the funds, while others see it as a savvy business move.
The relationship between Thuli and DJ Maphorisa has always been under the microscope, but never more so than now.
Fans have watched their journey unfold, from romantic beginnings to public disagreements and eventual breakup. Throughout, the issue of money has been a recurring theme.
Some claim that Maphorisa provided significant financial support, including buying a house for Thuli’s mother, while others insist that Thuli was always financially independent and that Maphorisa’s contributions have been overstated.
The truth, as is often the case with celebrity relationships, remains elusive.
Thuli’s family’s recent defense has not only reignited old debates but also exposed deep-seated anxieties about wealth, gender roles, and family loyalty.
In the age of social media, where every comment can go viral, the family’s decision to speak out has been both praised and criticized.
Supporters argue that Thuli deserves to be protected from rumors and falsehoods, especially given her high-profile status.
Critics, however, see the move as an attempt to rewrite history and downplay Maphorisa’s role in Thuli’s life.

Adding another layer to the drama are the persistent rumors and allegations circulating online.
Some commenters have accused Thuli of being ungrateful, suggesting that she tolerated Maphorisa only for his financial support.
Others have speculated that the entire relationship was transactional, with both parties seeking personal gain rather than genuine affection.
These claims, while sensational, reflect broader societal anxieties about the nature of celebrity relationships and the role of money in shaping personal dynamics.
The issue of lobola, in particular, has struck a nerve. Traditionally seen as a symbol of respect and commitment, the bride price has become a lightning rod for debates about culture, modernity, and financial responsibility.
In Thuli’s case, the alleged use of lobola money for business purposes has prompted some to question whether the tradition has lost its meaning.
Is lobola still about family and heritage, or has it become just another financial transaction in a world obsessed with wealth and status?
As the dust settles on this latest round of public drama, one thing is clear: the story of Thuli Phongolo and DJ Maphorisa is far from over.
The questions raised by their relationship—about money, loyalty, and the true meaning of family—continue to resonate with fans and observers.
Whether or not the full truth will ever emerge remains to be seen.
But for now, the saga serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities that lie beneath the surface of celebrity life, and the ways in which family, tradition, and finance can intersect in unexpected and often explosive ways.
What really happened to the lobola money? Is Thuli’s family as wealthy as they claim, or is she the one keeping things afloat?
Did DJ Maphorisa truly do “nothing” for her, or is the truth more complicated than anyone is willing to admit?
These are the questions that continue to swirl around this story, drawing in fans, critics, and curious onlookers alike. And as long as the answers remain elusive, the drama is sure to continue.