Kalala Ilunga
Kalala Ilunga is the legendary founder of the Luba Empire, son of Mbidi Kiluwe and Bulanda, and the first sacred king (Mulopwe) of the Luba people. Born with extraordinary strength and mystical gifts, he was said to praise himself for future exploits on the day of his birth. His uncle, King Nkongolo, plotted to kill him by digging a pit filled with spears in the dance hall. The Mbudye priests warned Kalala, and he danced carefully, avoiding the trap. When Nkongolo's warriors attacked, Kalala defeated them, caught Nkongolo, beheaded him, and returned with his head and genitals as proof of victo