Samba School that Praised Brazil’s Lula at Rio Carnival Relegated
Rio de Janeiro’s vibrant carnival parade, renowned for its dazzling performances and colorful displays, recently witnessed a significant incident of political controversy. While samba school Viradouro captured the prestigious crown with their tribute to a legendary drum director, Acadêmicos de Niterói found itself at the center of uproar after their homage to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva resulted in a last-place finish.
Controversial Tribute to Lula
– The performance highlighted Lula’s journey from his humble beginnings as a shoeshine boy to his esteemed position as President of Brazil.
– Tiago Martins, a designer at Acadêmicos de Niterói, described the portrayal as a personal narrative: The samba says it: there are children of the poor becoming doctors, and me, a child of the poor, becoming a carnival designer.
– The school aimed to celebrate Lula’s contributions to disadvantaged communities.
Political Backlash
– Critics labeled the performance as political campaigning ahead of the looming October elections, where Lula is vying for a fourth term.
– Several lawsuits claiming potential political advantages for Lula were filed but ultimately dismissed by the courts.
– Opposition parties even requested to halt the parade, fearing it would unduly influence voters.
Lula’s Involvement
– Despite the backlash, Lula endorsed Acadêmicos de Niterói’s performance, watching proudly from the stands of the giant Sambadrome arena alongside thousands of spectators.
Artistic Commentary
– The performance also included a striking display of former president Jair Bolsonaro, depicted as Bozo the Clown in a jail cell—a powerful political statement.
– Bolsonaro’s son, Flávio Bolsonaro, expressed his intent to contest the electoral court’s ruling on the parade.
– Social media users criticized another segment featuring dancers as a traditional family in a can, labeled preserved neoconservatives, drawing ire for mocking Christian values.
The Celebration Continues
– Despite the controversy surrounding Acadêmicos de Niterói, the carnival remained a spectacle of joy, featuring giant lions, dancing books, and a vibrant array of colors.
– The performances are judged across ten categories by 40 judges, with the top twelve samba schools competing for the coveted title.
In conclusion, while the Rio Carnival is a celebration of culture and tradition, the relegation of Acadêmicos de Niterói serves as a reminder of the intersection between art and politics. As the samba school prepares for its participation in the second division Série Ouro in 2027, the love for festivity and the spirit of the people continue to shine brightly amidst the complexities of the political landscape.