Doja Cat’s Brother Accused: Shocking Allegations Against Raman Dalithando Dlamini, Including Knocking Out Singer’s Teeth
3 min readPhoto by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
The world of pop sensation Doja Cat has been rocked by recent allegations of physical and verbal abuse within her own family. As her mother seeks legal protection against Doja’s older brother, Raman Dalithando Dlamini, the singer finds herself entangled in a disturbing family dispute.
The Allegations: A Family’s Cry for Help
Deborah Elizabeth Sawyer, Doja Cat’s mother, filed a temporary restraining order on January 12, 2023, in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleging that her son, Raman Dalithando Dlamini, physically assaulted the Grammy-winning singer. Shockingly, Sawyer claims that Raman knocked out Doja’s teeth and subjected her to cuts and bruises, leaving her feeling unsafe and traumatized.
Doja Cat’s brother is accused of knocking her teeth out, and abusing mother in restraining order request.
&md ash; Complex (@Complex) January 18, 2024
Serious allegations have been made against the artist's older brother, 30-year-old Raman Dalithando Dlamini. pic.twitter.com/GlAXSBOQKvAdvertisement
Legal Action and Protection: Temporary Restraining Order
Deborah Sawyer details in the court documents that she has previously obtained temporary restraining orders against Raman since 2017, though they have since expired. The recent filing prompted a judge to grant a temporary court-ordered protection from Raman to Deborah Sawyer, pending a hearing for a permanent restraining order. However, Doja Cat did not receive the same protection, as she would need to file her own restraining order request.
Social Media Amidst Turmoil: Doja Cat’s Response
Amidst the tumultuous family situation, Doja Cat has maintained her presence on social media. The artist shared Coachella’s 2024 lineup on Instagram, where she is slated to headline alongside Lana Del Rey, Tyler, the Creator, and No Doubt. Despite the gravity of her family’s allegations, Doja posted a selfie donning three pairs of sunglasses, leaving fans puzzled about her emotional state.
Family Dynamics: Insights into Doja Cat’s Upbringing
Doja Cat, born Amala Ratna Zandile Dlamini, grew up in a unique family dynamic. Her mother, Deborah, is an American graphic designer of Jewish heritage, while her father, Dumisani Dlamini, is a South African performer of Zulu descent. Doja has previously spoken about experiencing racism as one of the few mixed-race kids in her neighborhood.
In a 2021 Rolling Stone interview, Doja revealed that she and her brother were among the few mixed-race kids in their neighborhood, experiencing racism. Growing up, her brother used to mock her for not having Black friends. The interview shed light on the complexities of their family life, with Doja’s former babysitter indicating that her brother’s behavioral issues took up significant space in the household.
A fan page that Nicki Minaj follows has made a meme out of the recent news of Doja Cat getting abused by her brother. pic.twitter.com/PxT7Yx4oUe
— Local Gossip (@LocaIGossip) January 18, 2024
Family Struggles and Doja Cat’s Journey
Doja Cat’s family struggles reflect her journey as a rising star in the music industry. Despite facing challenges and estrangement from her father, she expressed feeling blessed, acknowledging that family dynamics are not always ideal. In interviews, she emphasized the importance of both parents and siblings in one’s life, even if the reality doesn’t always align with societal expectations.
As Doja Cat navigates the complexities of family turmoil, her Scarlet Tour continues, showcasing her resilience and commitment to her art. Despite the personal challenges, the pop sensation remains focused on her music and global tour, demonstrating her ability to rise above adversity.
The allegations of abuse within Doja Cat’s family have thrust the singer into the spotlight, not for her chart-topping hits, but for the deeply personal struggles she faces at home. As legal proceedings unfold, the public watches to see how Doja and her family navigate this challenging chapter, hoping for resolution, healing, and a return to the joyous and creative spirit that defines Doja Cat’s public persona.