As a visitor or resident in Kenya, you have probably heard the phrase Hakuna Matata. But what is the meaning of hakuna matata? The below explanation will make it easier for you to respond next time.
Hakuna Matata is a Swahili saying that originates from the common language spoken in East Africa. Word for word, Hakuna means There is no, while Matata means, problem or issue. Generally, Hakuna Matata in English means, No worries.
Most residents of East African countries speak Swahili besides their native languages and English. They include Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and southern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The estimated number of Swahili speakers currently rests at over 100 million people in East Africa alone.
Hakuna Matata is a common word among the local tour guides, firms, and destinations for tourists in Kenya. Tourists to Kenya visit the expansive coastal region and other popular safari destinations. Hakuna Matata’s significance among the locals is to greet someone or wish them well.
The spread of Hakuna Matata worldwide
The Swahili saying garnered international recognition from the popular 90s Disney movie, The Lion King. The top-grossing film, with the Lion and other talking animals, was an instant hit. The term Hakuna Matata is in the song and the main character’s phrases in the movie.
The two Swahili words further spurred a heated online debate between the East African community and Disney. The discussion was after Disney decided to register the name Hakuna Matata as a trademark. They have exclusive rights to earn profit from it through selling merchandise.
Furthermore, they restrict the saying from being printed on T-shirts. However, the registration was successful sometime in 2003. Disney has the right to sue any company that uses the name as part of the movie.
The saying forms part of the Swahili culture and heritage that the community should preserve. The trademark is, however, only against printed T-shirts similar to Disney’s merchandise. Companies and people worldwide are free to use the term on other clothing items and objects.
Who sang Hakuna Matata?
A Kenyan band, Them Mushrooms, sang the first song using the words Hakuna Matata. The 1982 album title is Jambo Bwana. The song has since seen several remakes. One of the popular ones is by a German band, Boney M. making the music in an English version.
Walt Disney’s directors of the movie, The Lion King, had their version of the words in the song written by Elton John. It later got a nomination and ranking among the top film’s music. The song in the movie is quite catchy and earned the phrase Hakuna Matata international recognition.
Is there a symbol of Hakuna Matata?
Unfortunately, there is no formally recorded symbol of the phrase Hakuna Matata. However, tattoo artists and impressionists use a variety of characters from the movie to imply the term, No problems. You can have a tattoo using the words and draw symbols of your choice around them.
Is Hakuna Matata an offensive term?
Although people who hear it for the first time may be unfamiliar with the meaning, it is not an insult. Petitioners on the website to remove the trademark from Disney referred to the action by the film company to trademark the words and make money from them as offensive. Their decision appears as an insult to the culture and language of the African people, especially the Swahili-speaking East Africans.
Other meanings of Hakuna Matata
Hakuna Matata signification differs in the interpretation. The word-for-word meaning is simple to translate but implies many different things to different people. For example, some of the ordinary meanings of the words are problem-free and Don’t worry, be happy.
However, people relate to a more profound meaning. Especially true for those who have had a chance to watch The Lion King film. The animal characters encourage beings to appreciate their surroundings, especially their home. Your home, including the people around you, should be a source of joy and peace. Peace and joy remove any worries you may have about life.
How does one reply to Hakuna Matata?
If and when you visit Kenya, you will experience and hear the Hakuna Matata phrase often. Sometimes, several times a day. If you are wondering how to respond to it, here are a few good reactions:
- Asante, which means Thank you in Swahili.
- Hakuna Matata. You reply with the exact words, meaning you agree that there are no worries.
- Kwaheri, which means Goodbye in Swahili.
There are no exact responses expected from you. Feel free to use whichever friendly gesture comes to mind at the moment.
Conclusion
There are various ways of defining the meaning of Hakuna Matata. The phrase is a way to cheer one up, especially when visiting the East Africa region. In Kenya, it is common to hear it in areas tourists and foreigners frequent. Hopefully, we have answered your question what is the meaning of hakuna matata. Hakuna Matata is an everyday phrase to the people of Kenya. It is their way of sharing a cheerful spirit and the message to live and enjoy life.
RECENT POSTS
