The Unidos do Viradouro samba school made waves at the 2025 Carnival with its spectacular performance titled "Malunguinho: O Mensageiro de Trs Mundos". This year’s theme honored the pivotal figure of Malunguinho, who was not only known for his dedication to liberation during the era of slavery but whose legacy continues to resonate through Afro-Indigenous culture in Brazil.
Performance highlights took place on the night of February 2, 2025, at the Sambódromo Marquês de Sapucaí, where the Viradouro group dazzled the crowd as the third samba school to parade during the first day of the Carnival's Special Group. Their colorful presentation aimed to honor Malunguinho, who once led the Quilombo do Catucá, which serves as a historical symbol of resistance for Afro and Indigenous peoples.
Malunguinho, admired for his courage and leadership, became emblematic of the struggle for freedom, showing how communities could confront oppression. Tarcísio Zanon, the carnavalesco behind this year's performance, stated: "É um enredo afro-indígena, um enredo negríndio. Misturamos essas duas culturas dentro de um personagem, não existe nada mais brasileiro." This sentiment capturing the essence of Brazil’s rich cultural diversity underscored the meaning behind their theme, as the show fused elements from both native and African lineages.
The preparation for the performance was accentuated by the participation of community members, showcasing their unity and enthusiasm. Lore Improta, the samba school's muse, expressed confidence, saying: "A Viradouro é campeã e não vai perder esse título facilmente." This spirit of perseverance was palpable through the streets during rehearsals, with enticing scenes hinting at what awaited festival-goers during the grand parade.
For the 2025 show, the Viradouro utilized 500 toys incorporated within their vibrant costumes and floats, which are set to be donated to children after Carnival celebrations. This act of kindness exemplifies the school’s commitment to community, going beyond the mere spectacle of the parade.
The samba school's presentation design ingeniously included effects symbolizing the five natural elements and utilized organic materials, drawing from the region's cultural backdrop. The combination of traditional aesthetics and modern expressiveness achieved through the costumes and floats created mesmerizing visual storytelling, setting the stage for an extraordinary viewing experience.
At the heart of the theme is the connection to the Jurema, the sacred plant revered for its powerful properties used during rituals, especially within the Afro-Brazilian religions. Throughout the performance, Malunguinho was depicted as caboclo da mata (forest guardian), symbolizing ancient wisdom and spirituality, as well as the mestre juremeiro, illuminating how these practices sustain cultural identity.
The samba lyrics of Viradouro reflect this spirit, echoing the struggles and aspirations of oppressed peoples, with powerful lines celebrating unity and resilience against tyranny: "Eu sou caboclo da Mata do Catucá! Eu sou pavor contra a tirania!". This powerful message reiterates the importance of cultural homage and the rebels of history, much like Malunguinho, who fiercely stood for rights and freedom.
Reflecting on historical contexts, Malunguinho's figure dates back to the early 19th century, when he led the Quilombo do Catucá. His spirit still lives on today, celebrated during community rituals of Jurema Sagrada and other traditions, reinforcing the importance of remembrance and cultural identity for future generations.
To bring this narrative full circle, Tarcísio Zanon noted the mystical origins of the theme, sparked by his experience during celebrations of the previous year’s Carnival title, when ethereal smoke emerged from adjacent forests, channeling inspiration from nature’s powerful symbolism and rich cultural motifs.
Unidos do Viradouro aims not only for championship glory but also strives to sprinkle yearning respect for ancestry through their portrayal of historical figures and practices. Their portrayal of Malunguinho epitomizes the enduring spirit of resilience—an homage to those who shaped the impoverished community's history against the backdrop of turbid times. By presenting the rich blend of these two cultures, they reinforce the ever-evolving narrative of Brazil’s identity.
A serenade to the ancestral roots, the essence of Viradouro's 2025 performance isn’t just about collecting trophies; it’s about embracing the power of shared histories, being guardians of cultural practices, and allowing ancestral spirits like Malunguinho to lead the charge once more. Expect vibrant displays of color, movement, and rhythm when the Viradouro samba school delivers what promises to be another historical highlight at Carnavals to come.