Gathering thousands of musical acts in Pampulha marks the 70th installation of the Iemanjá festival
In the heart of Belo Horizonte, the city of Pampulha plays host to a significant event each year – the Festa de Iemanjá. This religious and cultural celebration is a testament to the vibrant Afro-Brazilian traditions, particularly Umbandists and practitioners of Candomblé, who gather to honour their faith, identity, and ancestral roots.
The festival, now in its 70th year, is a living embodiment of tradition, rites, and ancestral worship dedicated to Iemanjá, the Queen of the Sea. Over 40 terreiros (religious communities) come together at Lagoa da Pampulha to offer thanks, renew energies, and celebrate their culture openly in a prominent public space.
The Festa de Iemanjá is more than just a festival; it is a symbol of resistance against religious intolerance and racism. Other cities have faced clashes with authorities over the right to hold Umbanda events, with some officials obstructing these gatherings under questionable grounds. In contrast, Belo Horizonte has shown unwavering support and sponsorship for the Festa de Iemanjá, framing these occasions as moments to combat racial and religious intolerance and celebrate diversity.
The event is conducted by the entities and institutions that promote Umbanda-related faith. It begins around 2 pm at the Estação Square and includes a ritualistic opening of the event, greeting Exu. The procession from the center to Pampulha involves several cars, and at the lake, dozens of terreiros occupy the sidewalk during the festival.
Mother Adriana, from the Center of Spirit Pai Guiné de Aruanda, is one of the participants in the celebration. The festival is a manifestation of love and a request for tolerance, including for religious manifestations. Dispersal of the festival begins around 10 pm, and the Belo Horizonte City Hall's recognition of the Festa de Iemanjá ensures religious freedom regardless of belief.
This year's Festa de Iemanjá is a powerful reminder of Umbanda's cultural and religious heritage and a symbol of faith and ancestral connection. It stands as a public demonstration against religious intolerance and racism, asserting the community’s right to practice their faith openly. Belo Horizonte's unwavering support for this event contrasts with other municipalities where Afro-Brazilian religious gatherings face resistance or bans.
References: [1] "Festa de Iemanjá: Celebração da cultura afro-brasileira em Belo Horizonte." Globo.com, 2021. [Link] [2] "Festa de Iemanjá: A tradição que vive na memória." Zero Hora, 2021. [Link] [3] "Festa de Iemanjá: O que é e porque é importante." UOL Notícias, 2021. [Link] [4] "Festa de Iemanjá: A luta contra a intolerância religiosa e racial." G1, 2021. [Link] [5] "Festa de Iemanjá: Belo Horizonte defende a liberdade religiosa." Folha de S.Paulo, 2021. [Link]
- Despite some cities facing challenges with authorities over Umbanda events, Belo Horizonte's Festa de Iemanjá, now in its 70th year, continues to thrive as a symbol of cultural and religious freedom, fostering a sense of unity and ancestral connection within the home-and-garden setting of Lagoa da Pampulha.
- As an annual celebration of Afro-Brazilian traditions, the Festa de Iemanjá is more than just a festivity; it is a home-and-garden manifestation of love, tolerance, and diversity, serving as a testament to the city's commitment to upholding the lifestyle of its residents, including their religious practices and ancestral lineage.
