A Roda Vai Começar
Abadá Capoeira
The Eternal Circle: Capoeira's Celestial Dance
The song "A Roda Vai Começar" by Abadá Capoeira is a poetic homage to the legendary figures of capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. The lyrics evoke a mystical scene where iconic capoeira masters ascend to the heavens, continuing their art in the celestial realm. Figures like Zumbi, Mestre Bimba, and Besouro Mangangá are mentioned, each a significant historical or mythical figure in the capoeira tradition. Their ascension symbolizes the eternal nature of capoeira, transcending earthly boundaries and continuing in the afterlife.
The song also touches on the emotional and spiritual connection that capoeiristas have with their art. The mention of Mestre Pastinha, a revered capoeira master who was blind in his later years, adds a poignant layer to the narrative. His lamentation and desire to join the celestial roda (circle) reflect the deep longing and passion that capoeiristas feel for their practice. The imagery of thunder and lightning as the roda begins in the sky adds a dramatic and almost divine quality to the event, suggesting that capoeira is not just a physical activity but a spiritual experience.
Culturally, the song underscores the importance of capoeira in Brazilian heritage. It celebrates the resilience and creativity of Afro-Brazilian culture, which gave birth to capoeira as a form of resistance and expression. The roda, or circle, is a central element in capoeira, symbolizing unity, community, and the cyclical nature of life. By placing the roda in the heavens, the song elevates capoeira to a sacred status, honoring its practitioners and their contributions to this rich cultural tapestry.