On the night of March 1, 2025, the carnaval festivities exploded to life as the Mancha Verde samba school took center stage at São Paulo’s famous Sambódromo. With their theme 'Bahia, da Fé ao Profano', the school paid vibrant homage to the rich African heritage and traditions of Bahia, captivating both the audience and judges alike.
Leading the way was the dazzling queen of the bateria, Viviane Araujo, who shone brightly, adorned with extravagant costumes highlighted by sparkling gems and LED effects. Her outfit was inspired by the iconic album 'O Canto da Cidade' by Daniela Mercury, celebrating the land of colors and joy. “Today is the day to exalt this enchanted land! The song of this city echoes loudly, taking our energy and history to the world,” Araujo posted on social media before the performance, expressing her excitement.
The parade itself began thrillingly at 2:15 AM, showcasing not just vibrant visuals but a deep narrative of cultural significance. The samba-enredo, composed by Wladi Nascimento, Edinho Gomes, and others, encapsulated the harmonious blend of the sacred and the profane as it explored how spirituality and celebration coexist within Bahian culture. This narrative was well artfully executed, aiming to captivate hearts with its exploration of ancestral ties to African deities and enduring festive spirit.
According to Paulo Serdan, the president of Mancha Verde, the inspiration for this year’s theme stems from Gastão Netto’s documentary which delves deep not just on historical aspects but also on the daily life interactions between the sacred and the secular. “The mission of 'Bahia, da Fé ao Profano' is to illuminate the everyday coexistence of faith and celebration,” he stated. “We want to show through our performance the vibrancy of Bahian life and its relentless pursuit of joy, spirituality, and cultural heritage.”
The audience was taken on a colorful voyage through Bahia, featuring prominently traditional symbols such as the acarajé from the baianas, the ritualistic terreiros of Candomblé, and the pulsation of axé music. A particularly poignant moment was delivered through the third float, which showcased the intersection of culinary culture with Bahian spirituality, creatively presented as decorative scenes inspired by the Mercado Modelo.
Timekeepers noted the parade lasted precisely one hour, four minutes and twenty-eight seconds—a masterful execution aligning successfully with the mandatory time of between 55 and 65 minutes stipulated for the parade. During this time, the audience was not only treated to bright costumes but also reflected upon the lyrical beauty of faith woven throughout the samba lyrics. Key figures like Oxum and Iemanjá graced the floats, complemented by dynamic performances from the bateria.
Another remarkable feature of the evening was the dazzling presentation from the Comissão de Frente, which stunningly encapsulated the parade’s theme. The choreography delved visually to represent the dichotomy of chaos and serenity, underpinning the constant interplay of personal and collective beliefs. It was a grand gesture of artistry, displaying both the struggle and the joy present within Bahian society.
Nevertheless, the intoxicant beats of the samba and the infectious energy of the crowd did not overshadow the efforts of the community and culture represented. The message behind the theme touched on the importance of identity and heritage, reminding the audience of the integral role such cultural expressions play not only within Brazil but throughout the world.
Returning to the star of the show, Viviane Araujo, she reflected on her long-standing commitment to the samba community, stating her unwavering dedication to the joy and spirit of Carnaval. “A Mancha is family. Our connections here transcend mere performance; they are lifetimes of shared stories and moments,” she said, encapsulating the depth of connection and tradition found among the school’s members.
With the vibrant showcase of 'Bahia, da Fé ao Profano', the Mancha Verde school brought home not only glitz and glamour but also depth and meaning, reminding everyone of the universal need for joy and connection to one’s roots. The anticipation leading up to the results of the Carnaval standings will only build upon the fervor of the evening, signaling yet another memorable chapter within São Paulo’s rich samba history.
Streamed live on television and digital platforms, the immense significance of such cultural displays continues to resonate, showcasing the unifying power of rhythm, dance, and Historical narratives steeped deeply within the Brazilian experience.