Beija-Flor
Beija-Flor 2025: My Exclusive Carnival Experience
A VICTORY WRITTEN IN THE STARS
The drums of destiny have spoken. The sweat, the fire, the unwavering faith, everything led to this moment. Under the blazing lights of Marquês de Sapucaí, where history is not just written but danced into eternity, Béija-Flor soared higher than ever before.
JORGE TEIXERA COREÓGRAFO DA COMISSÃO DA BEIJA-FLOR - 2025 by Zequinha Santos
Beija-Flor's Pre-Carnaval Tribute to Laíla.
The air crackled with an energy I've rarely witnessed. In the heart of Rio de Janeiro, the spirit of Carnaval was undeniably alive and vibrant. I had the immense privilege, a true honor, of being present to photograph the pre-Carnaval performance of the legendary samba school, Beija-Flor de Nilópolis, as they gear up for their 2025 parade. This year holds a particularly poignant significance as Beija-Flor will be paying homage to the unforgettable Luiz Fernando Ribeiro do Carmo, affectionately known as Laíla, a true icon of Rio's Carnaval and a cornerstone of Beija-Flor who sadly left us in 2021.
Sergínho Aguìar Leila.
A Beautiful Homage to Laila (BeijaFlor) by Sergehino Aguiar100
Day 02 of December, National Day of Samba, I manifest myself as sambista with these two significant images, in reality, there exists an interference of the invisibles, as says the song of Benito de Paula… “It would be very good, it would be very cool, if the singer or composer could be an actor or a football player.” in football, I did not obtain professional success, despite humbly playing a lot kkkk in youth rs, actor? I have no course of anything, I just lived this homage of saudade and of respect for this great master! Thank you Beija-flor, thank you President Almir Reis, for the opportunity, gratitude to my partners for the idea, gratitude to my pai de santo, Anderson de Oxaguian for the endumentárias and for the firmness in faith, to whom was transformed Flávia Rob, divine. To those who were impacted, gratitude for the recognition. Gratitude to those who supported me truly. Hail the samba, originating in Brazil, hail the ancestry, hail the faith! Axé!
Dia 02 de Dezembro, dia nacional do samba, me manifesto como sambistas com essas duas imagens significativas, na realidade existe uma interferência dos invisíveis, como dia a música do Benito de Paula... " Seria muito bom, seria muito legal, se o cantor ou compositor pudesse ser ator ou jogador de futebol" no futebol não obtive sucesso profissional, apesar de humildemente jogar muito kkkk na juventude rs, ator? Não tenho nenhum curso de nada, apenas vivi essa homenagem da Saudade e do respeito pro esse grande mestre! Obrigado Beija-flor, obrigado presidente Almir Reis pela oportunidade, gratidão aos meus parceiros pela ideia, gratidão ao meu pai de santo Anderson de Oxaguian pelas endumentárias e pela firmeza na fé, a que fez a transformação Flávia Rob, divinal. Aos que se impactaram gratidão pelo reconhecimento. Gratidão aos que me apoiaram de verdade. Salve o samba, oriundo Brasil, salve a ancestralidade, salve a fé! Axé! #beijaflordenilopolis #carnaval2025 #laila #liesa #gabrieldavid #beijafloroficial
Under the masterful direction of carnavalesco João Vitor Araújo, Beija-Flor transformed the Sambadrómo into a living tapestry of Laíla’s legacy. The researchers Bianca Behrends, Vivian Pereira, and Guilherme Negro meticulously crafted a narrative that honored his contributions—not just to Beija-Flor, but to the very soul of Rio’s Carnaval.
The samba-enredo, composed by Kirazinho, Lucas Gringo, Wilsinho Paz, Venir Vieira, Marquinhos Beija-Flor, and Dr. Rogério, was a soaring anthem of remembrance. But it was the voice of Neguinho da Beija-Flor, the school’s iconic interpreter for 49 years, that carried the emotion of an era coming to a close.
Dear Sergehino,
We were deeply moved by your recent Instagram post honoring the late Laila (BeijaFlor) on this significant National Samba Day. Your words, coupled with the evocative imagery, resonate profoundly with the spirit and passion of samba.
Your reflection on the "interference of the invisibles," drawing a beautiful parallel with Benito de Paula's song, speaks volumes about the intangible yet powerful influence of artistry and legacy. While your journey may not have led to professional football, your heartfelt tribute through this artistic expression is a remarkable achievement in itself.
We deeply appreciate you sharing this personal homage, expressing your gratitude to Beija-Flor, President Almir Reis for the opportunity, your partners for the inspiring idea, Pai Anderson de Oxaguian for the beautiful adornments and unwavering faith, and Flávia Rob for the divine transformation. Your recognition of those who were impacted and those who offered genuine support further highlights the collaborative and appreciative nature of the samba community.
Thank you, Sergehino, for so eloquently and respectfully keeping the memory of Laila alive. Your post is a beautiful testament to the enduring power of samba, its Brazilian roots, ancestral heritage, and the unwavering faith that binds it all.
Axé!
Sincerely,
And then there was Neguinho da Beija-Flor. Knowing this would be his final pre-Carnaval performance after an incredible 49 years as the official voice of Beija-Flor sent waves of emotion through the crowd. His powerful voice, instantly recognizable and deeply ingrained in the soul of Beija-Flor, soared through the night, carrying the weight of history and the promise of a heartfelt tribute. Every note, every gesture, felt imbued with a profound sense of nostalgia and gratitude. It was truly a historic moment to witness.
Neguinho cues the first beat.
A Voice That Defined Generations
Neguinho’s Farewell
Neguinho da Beija-Flor (Luiz Antônio Feliciano Marcondes)—the man whose voice became synonymous with Beija-Flor’s triumphs—stepped onto the avenue for his final performance as lead singer. Since 1976, his powerful vocals had been the heartbeat of the escola, and as he sang this tribute to Laíla, the air was thick with nostalgia.
The crowd knew this was history unfolding. After nearly five decades, the man who had chanted victories, lifted spirits, and embodied the essence of samba was passing the torch. Tears glistened in the eyes of veterans and newcomers alike.
Pinah Ayoud the soul of Beija-Flor and an eternal star of Carnaval.
Pinahayoud
Pinah Ayoub, affectionately known as the "Cinderela Negra" (Black Cinderella), is a distinguished figure within the Beija-Flor de Nilópolis samba school, one of Rio de Janeiro's most celebrated Carnival institutions. Her involvement with Beija-Flor spans several decades, during which she has made significant contributions both on and off the parade avenue.
She is described as "the soul of Beija-Flor and an eternal star of Carnaval."
She has a long history with the school, having paraded with Beija-Flor for nearly 50 years and never with another samba school.
Her connection to samba began early as the daughter of a mestre-sala (a traditional leading male dancer in samba schools).
Pinah gained international recognition in 1978 when she danced samba with Prince Charles during his visit to Rio de Janeiro.
Beyond being a passista (a samba dancer), she has also been a highlight on the allegorical floats.
Currently, she is part of the directorate of Beija-Flor, indicating her continued and important role within the school.
She is referred to as the "Black Cinderella" of Beija-Flor.
Pinah is considered a living reference of Brazilian popular culture and a timeless muse of the Marquês de Sapucaí (the Sambadrome).
The Bateria That Shook the Earth
Under the command of Mestres Rodney and Plínio, the bateria of Beija-Flor delivered a thunderous, hypnotic rhythm. The surdos pulsed like a collective heartbeat, the repiques sliced through the night, and the tamborins shimmered like stars.
A Queen Born of Samba
Lorena Raíssa
Leading the charge was none other than the Queen of Drums, Lorena Raíssa, a woman whose very existence is intertwined with Beija-Flor’s magic.
Lorena’s story is the stuff of Carnaval legend. Her mother, a Beija-Flor dancer, went into labor during a technical rehearsal. Born into the rhythm, Lorena was destined to reign. This year, she made history once again as the pregnant Queen of Drums, her radiant presence symbolizing continuity, life, and the unbreakable bond between past and future.
The anticipation was palpable as the first notes of the samba-enredo, "Laíla de todos os Santos, Laíla de todos os Sambas," filled the air. The lyrics, penned by the talented team of Kirazinho, Lucas Gringo, Wilsinho Paz, Venir Vieira, Marquinhos Beija-Flor, and Dr. Rogério, resonated with a deep sense of love and remembrance for Laíla's immense contributions.
The Royalty of the Parade.
Mestre-Sala and Porta-Bandeira: The elegant Claudinho and Selminha Sorriso floated across the avenue, their movements a poetic dialogue between flag and dancer.
Claudinho and Selminha Sorriso
Comissão de Frente: The Divine Invocation
Led by Jorge Teixeira and Saulo Finelon, the Comissão de Frente (Front Commission) set the mystical tone. Dressed as orixás and Candomblé priests, their choreography was a ritualistic invocation, calling upon the spirits to bless the parade. Each movement was deliberate—hands raised in prayer, bodies swaying like sacred dancers in a terreiro. Among them, figurants portraying Oxalá (the creator), Iemanjá (goddess of the sea), and Xangô (god of justice) moved with celestial grace, embodying the spiritual forces that guided Laíla’s life.
Johnny.pauloofc
What is an Ensaio Técnico?
More than just a rehearsal, this is a public rite of preparation. Each samba school uses this night to fine-tune their harmony, timing, and crowd engagement without the full costumes, but with a full heart.
JORGE TEIXERA COREÓGRAFO DA COMISSÃO DA BEIJA-FLOR - carnaval25. TX by Zequinha Santos
Wings of the Parade
Adding to the visual splendor were the dazzling muses, the regal queens, and the commanding kings of the parade.
Musa Bruna Goncalves “Dancer, digital influencer, and entrepreneur.”
In the vibrant tapestry of Rio de Janeiro's 2025 Carnival, Brunna Gonçalves emerged as a luminous figure, captivating audiences as the muse of the esteemed samba school, Beija-Flor de Nilópolis. Her performance was not only a testament to her artistic prowess but also a celebration of motherhood, as she graced the Sambadrome while pregnant with her first child, Zuri, conceived with her wife, singer Ludmilla.
A Symbol of Strength and Inspiration
A Dream Realized on the Samba Stage
Brunna's aspiration to parade while expecting was meticulously planned. Through the ROPA method (Recepção de Oócito da Parceira), she and Ludmilla orchestrated the timing of her pregnancy to coincide with Carnival. "I planned everything so that my pregnancy would align perfectly with Carnival. I'm thrilled that it worked out," Brunna shared in an interview with Quem magazine.
Her costume, thoughtfully designed to accommodate her pregnancy, featured a dazzling ensemble that proudly showcased her baby bump, complemented by an ornate headpiece. Brunna's radiant presence and unwavering energy were highlights of the parade, embodying both the spirit of Carnival and the joy of impending motherhood.
Brunna's participation resonated deeply, symbolizing resilience and the harmonious blend of tradition and progress. Her presence underscored the evolving narratives within Carnival, where personal milestones and cultural expressions intertwine.
For those wishing to witness Brunna's captivating performance, highlights are available on various platforms, including TikTok and YouTube
Musa Flavia Custodio. Embodying Xangô as Beija-Flor's Muse at Rio Carnival 2025
Flávia's portrayal of Xangô, the Afro-Brazilian orixá associated with justice and thunder, was a highlight of Beija-Flor's parade. Her embodiment of this deity was both regal and evocative, resonating deeply with the audience.
Flávia's participation in this triumphant parade coincided with her birthday, adding a personal milestone to the collective celebration. Beyond her performance, Flávia engaged with fans and followers through social media, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses and expressing her gratitude for the experience. Her presence extended the spirit of Carnival beyond the Sambadrome, connecting with a broader audience.
Musa Savia David, Celebrating 16 Years of Dedication and a Legacy of Ancestral Wisdom.
Sávia's costume for the parade was a testament to the seamless integration of modern technology with traditional artistry. Designed to represent "The Wings of Ancestral Wisdom," the ensemble featured artificial feathers and advanced techniques to create a visually stunning effect. Despite the costume's increased weight, Sávia embraced the challenge, stating, "It's much heavier than usual, but I do everything to surprise the stands.
Adding a deeply personal touch to the performance, Sávia was accompanied by her 10-year-old son, Lorenzo, who made his debut on the Sambadrome runway. Together, they embodied the theme of ancestral knowledge, with Lorenzo representing the "Light of Ancestral Knowledge." Sávia reflected on the experience, saying, "Honoring our ancestors and elders means recognizing the wisdom of those who came before us. That's what I strive to teach my children."
David inviting her son to the threshold. Sambadromo Marques de sapucai 2025.
Crossing the threshold.
Her dedication to the art of samba and her commitment to cultural heritage have solidified her status as a beloved figure in the carnival community.
Carla Cachoeira: A Daughter of Beija Flor Shines in 2025 Triumph
A true child of Beija Flor, Carla's journey with the school began at the young age of 15 when she first paraded with the baianinhas, the traditional women's wing. She honed her samba skills through the school's social project, a testament to Beija Flor's commitment to nurturing young talent within the community of Nilópolis. From the baianinhas, she naturally progressed to the esteemed ranks of the passistas, where she has remained a vibrant presence for many years.
Carla Cachoeira..
Known for her deep ties to the local community, Carla participated in street rehearsals and paraded with contagious energy. Her costume and presence paid homage to Beija-Flor’s winning theme.
Ala das Baianas: The Baianas, led by Mãe Cristina de Oxum, swirled in their wide, hoop skirts, embodying the ancestral feminine energy that sustains samba. Each step was a prayer, each turn a blessing.
Ala dos Passistas: The passistas, including rising stars Gabriel do Passo and Rafaela Santos, dazzled with their lightning-fast footwork, their bodies telling stories of joy, struggle, and resilience—just as Laíla had envisioned.
Velha-Guarda: Under Presidente Débora Rosa, the guardians of tradition marched with pride, their presence a bridge between generations. Dressed in vintage Beija-Flor attire, they carried the weight of history in their smiles.
Photographing Beija-Flor in 2025 was not merely documenting an event, it was bearing witness to living history. The air was thick with saudade, reverence, and resistance against forgetfulness. This was Laíla’s parade, yes, but also a symphony of collective memory, love, and defiance against oblivion.
In every frame I captured, I tried to preserve that essence:
A school, a man, a community that refuses to let their story fade.
And as the final note of Neguinho’s voice echoed into the Carioca night, the silence that followed was not an ending.
It was an eternal beginning.
With rhythm and reverence, I hope to be part of the magic next year.
Thank you to Rede Globo for allowing me to feature this video. Your exceptional storytelling enriches my blog and helps share Brazil’s vibrant culture with my audience.
