The world’s biggest party, also known as Brazil’s Rio Carnival has begun. Read to know all about the celebration.
All about the 2023 Rio Carnival in Brazil
The annual Rio Carnival 2023 kicked off on February 17 with full of music, color, and life. Often called the “world’s biggest party,” over 40 million people are expected to attend it. While this is the biggest and brightest of carnival celebrations, the festivities are not limited to this region. The carnival ends on Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. This year, it falls on February 22.
The parades and dances are a last hurray, full of indulgence and extravagance before ‘Lent,’ the period of abstinence. Let continues for about 40 days, until Ester, a day believed to be when Jesus Christ rose from the dead following his crucifixion. Lent is a period of abstinence and fasting in imitation of Christ’s fasting in the wilderness, staying away from the devil’s temptation. Hence, during the month, Christians give on certain activities or items. It is seen as a personal test to reaffirm their commitment to spirituality and resist temptation.
Various versions of the Rio Carnival are celebrated in over 50 nations
Various versions of the Rio Carnival are celebrated in over 50 nations. In India, the festival takes place in Goa. This year, as per the Goa Department of Tourism, it will be celebrated near the Mandovi river in Panjim. As per the authorities, the festival marked the beginning of spring and the end of winter in the pre-Christian era. Blocos or street parties are an important aspect of the carnival. A Samba dance, a mixture of Brazillian and African traditions is particularly famous. Several Brazillian towns have their parades and the crowning of “King Momo” who leads the parade is a highlight.
As per the Goa Department of Tourism, King Momo also known as the King of Chaos is derived from the Greek god, Momos, the god of satire. In Goa, the King’s court is made up of jesters, a brass band, fire eaters, and revelers. The King goes around, encouraging people to “Eat, drink and make merry”. Moreover, “large-hearted, jolly, fun-loving Goans,” are encouraged to apply with the department to be the King.