Ijexá (Filhos de Ghandi)

Clara Nunes' song "Ijexá (Filhos de Ghandi)" is a vibrant homage to the Afro-Brazilian culture and its rich heritage. The lyrics celebrate the spiritual and cultural legacy of the Filhos de Gandhi, a traditional Afro-Brazilian afoxé group from Salvador, Bahia. The group is named after Mahatma Gandhi, symbolizing peace and non-violence, and it plays a significant role in the annual Carnival celebrations. The song's title, "Ijexá," refers to a rhythm of African origin, which is deeply rooted in the Candomblé religion and is characterized by its hypnotic and enchanting beats.

The lyrics evoke a sense of mystery and enchantment, describing the powerful force of a song that has the ability to captivate and inspire. The imagery of the song is rich and evocative, comparing the brilliance of the music to the sun, a silver sky, and a sea of stars. This celestial imagery highlights the transcendent and uplifting nature of the music, which brings light and beauty to the lives of a people who have endured suffering and hardship. The song acknowledges the profound greatness and rare beauty of the Afro-Brazilian community, emphasizing their resilience and the deep cultural wealth that they carry from their ancestors.

Clara Nunes' tribute extends to the various generations of the Filhos de Gandhi, from the children to the grandchildren, each carrying forward the legacy of their forebears. The song underscores the importance of preserving and celebrating this cultural heritage, which is a source of pride and identity for the Afro-Brazilian community. The repetition of the group's name and the rhythmic chant-like structure of the lyrics create a sense of continuity and connection to the past, while also introducing a new sound, the Ijexá, to the listener. This blend of tradition and innovation reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of Afro-Brazilian culture, which continues to thrive and inspire through its music and traditions.