![]() This unique multicultural encounter birthed an authentic music expression, today called Rio’s urban samba (or samba carioca). For Ciata, the fuller the house, the better. Ciata’s riotous gatherings attracted all kinds of people, from the African-Bahian community to working-class immigrants – Jews, Arabs, Latin Europeans – and even curious white middle-class Cariocas (denizens of Rio). “Her parties used to last five, sometimes seven days, nonstop,” says Gracy Mary Moreira, Ciata’s great-granddaughter and custodian since 2007 of Casa da Tia Ciata, a cultural institution dedicated to her memory and legacy. Photograph: Casa da Tia Ciata Instituteįrom Bahia, Aunt Ciata brought the culture inherited from her African ancestors and the habit of celebrating life as a form of resistance. It might not have lasted were it not for the intelligence and diplomacy of the entrepreneur, artist, spiritual guide and community leader known as Aunt Ciata.Įntrepreneur, artist, spiritual guide and community leader … Aunt Ciata. Samba faced police persecution: musicians were frequently arrested, their instruments confiscated or destroyed gatherings were abruptly shut down. In the early 20th century, Rio’s ruling elite were ashamed and afraid of the rhythm, which was linked to African-Brazilian cults. It’s the only reasonable decision given how out of control the pandemic is in Brazil – yet locals and tourists are still mourning the loss of the world’s most prestigious pre-Lent festival, one rooted in the sound of samba.Ī century ago, samba becoming synonymous with Brazil’s cultural identity would have seemed impossible. But for the first time outside the two world wars, the city’s flagship event is cancelled. ![]() This week, Rio de Janeiro should have been celebrating, its streets alive with local people and tourists honouring the city’s Carnival, a tradition dating back to the 17th century.
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