Members of the samba school "Mancha Verde" take part in the carnival parade in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Feb. 22, 2020. (Photo by Rahel Patrasso/Xinhua)

The Sao Paulo Carnival has kicked off with samba schools paying tribute to history and cultural diversity.

The parade on Friday night at Sao Paulo Sambadrome saw a grand production by Mancha Verde school, current champion of the Sao Paulo Carnival parades, which portrayed the history of humanity.

The Tom Maior school presented the theme, "It's a matter of black," a phrase that has been reclaimed by Brazilians of African descent from its original derogatory meaning, with a float paying tribute to Marielle Franco, a black councilor killed in Rio de Janeiro in 2018.

The Barroca Zona Sul school honored Brazilians of African descent with their tribute to Tereza de Benguela, a quilombola leader who lived in the state of Mato Grosso during the 18th century.

The Dragoes da Real school explored the concept of happiness in its many forms, paying homage to everything from the music of Beethoven to the performances of actor Charlie Chaplin.

The parade, broadcast in 70 countries of the world, is the prelude to the Rio de Janeiro Sambadrome, which will be held on March 1-2.

There will be another parade on Saturday night, when around 2,500 people are expected to meld traditional Brazilian rhythms with costumes and scenery inspired by China.

Photo: Xinhua

 

Photo: Xinhua

 

Photo: Xinhua

 

Photo: Xinhua