Person
Mestre Bimba
Manoel dos Reis Machado
23 November 1899 – 5 February 1974
Born in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Died in Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
12
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19001910192019301940195019601970
- Life
- Lineage (training, titles granted)
- Groups
- Locations
- approximate
Dated moments of this life, from the corpus.6 undated moments are listed under Relations
- 189923 November 1899Born · Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
- 1911Began training with Bentinho · at 12 · evidence
- 1928Active in Bahia, Brazil · at 29
- 1932Founded Associação de Capoeira Mestre Bimba · at 33 · evidence
- 1932Led Associação de Capoeira Mestre Bimba · at 33 · evidence
- 1935Began training with Cobrinha Verde · at 36 · evidence
- 1939Baptism given to Onça Tigre · at 40 · evidence
- 1947Title granted to Damião · at 48 · evidence
- c. 1960Title granted to Acordeon · at 61 · evidence
- 1967Baptism given to Cafuné · at 68 · evidence
- 19722 titles granted · Joel, Suassuna · at 73
- 19745 February 1974Died · at 75
57
3 teachers
Mestre Cobrinha Verde
1912 – 198324 October 1912 – 1983Luiz Cândido Machado
1860s – ?
MestreBimba
→54 students
Mestre Atenilo
1918 – 198616 July 1918 – 1986Cisnando
1914 – 19849 October 1914 – 10 December 1984Mestre Onça Tigre
1919 –Mestre Decânio
1923 – 201112 February 1923 – 1 February 2011Mestre Damião
1920s –Mestre Carlos Senna
1931 – 200228 October 1931 – 4 November 2002Maria Pára o Bonde
1910s – ?Nega Didi
1910s – ?Satanás
1910s – ?Mestre Gigante
1920 – 20164 October 1920 – 30 May 2016Leopardo Negro
1929 – 198428 October 1929 – August 1984Mestre Vermelho 27
1936 – 19969 March 1936 – 18 May 1996Mestre Jair Moura
1936 – 202027 August 1936 – 19 August 2020Mestre Acordeon
1943 –Mestre Suassuna
1938 –Mestre Silvestre
1930s –Mestre Baiano
1945 –Mestre Gilberto Flores
1940s –Mestre Camisa Roxa
1944 – 20137 January 1944 – 18 April 2013Mestre Paulo Flores
1940s –Mestre Rafael Flores
1948 – 20161948 – 5 November 2016Mestre Ezequiel
1941 – 199718 October 1941 – 26 March 1997Mestre Saci
1945 –Mestre Itapoan
1947 –Mestre Nenel
1960 –Mestre Cafuné
1938 –Macarrão
1950s –Mestre Xaréu
1940s –Mestre Camisa
1955 –Mestre Onça Negra
1950s –Mestre Lua Rasta
1950 –Mestre Geni
1947 –Mestre Jelon
1953 –Formado Pedrinho
1950s –Formado Ermival
1940s –Mestre Arraia
1946 – 200517 January 1946 – 14 January 2005Mestre Galo
1940s –Mestre Vinte e Nove
1920s –Mestre Capazans
1930s –Mestre Banduê
1920s –Torpedo
1950s –Mestre Brás Amansa Brabo
1920s –Mestre Edinho
1920s –Mestre Wilson Sereno
1930s –Mestre Maneca Brandão
1920s –Jurandir
1920s –Mestre Zoião
1920s –Mestre Onça
1935 –Mestre Formiga
1960s – 2003Mestre Salário Mínimo
1940s –Perez
1920s –Contra-Mestre Crispim
1920s –Mestre Miranda
1920s –Mestre Preguiça
1947 –
Manoel dos Reis Machado was born on November 23, 1899, in the Bairro do Engenho Velho neighborhood of Salvador, Bahia—the youngest of 25 siblings. His parents were Luiz Cândido Machado, a champion of batuque, and Maria Martinha do Bonfim. The nickname "Bimba" came from a bet between his mother and the midwife about his sex; when he was born male, the midwife remarked on his "bimba" (Bahian slang for male genitalia), and the name stuck for life.
At twelve years old, in 1911, Bimba began learning capoeira from Bentinho, an African-born captain of the Companhia Baiana de Navegação. Training took place at the Clube União em Apuros on the Estrada das Boiadas in Salvador's Liberdade neighborhood—a predominantly Black area. The apprenticeship lasted four years. Bimba later described Bentinho's style as "capoeira de Angola" or "capoeira antiga".
Parallel to his capoeira training, young Bimba learned batuque from his father, who was a local champion of this combat sport involving defensive positioning and powerful leg sweeps. These techniques would later become foundational to Capoeira Regional.
Bimba's connection to Candomblé was also deep. At fourteen, he joined the Candomblé do Senhor Vidal (Ketu nation) and became an ogã. Though he later dedicated himself exclusively to capoeira, he never stopped fulfilling his obligations to Xangô. His later wife Mãe Alice (Alice Maria da Cruz) led the Terreiro Oiá Padê da Riméia at Alto da Santa Cruz, Nordeste de Amaralina—described by Muniz Sodré as "uma casinha azul-anil" (a blue-indigo little house) in the Recôncavo style. Bimba brought students to the terreiro to receive spiritual "passes" and prayers, reconnecting them with Afro-Bahian rituals from which formal education had separated many of them. This represents an important but often overlooked spiritual dimension of Capoeira Regional's transmission.
By eighteen, Bimba had concluded that capoeira had lost its martial efficacy, reduced to "nine movements" and becoming merely folkloric. He began restoring movements from old capoeira, adding batuque techniques, and inventing new movements. He removed two moves (encruzilhada, deslocamento) and added approximately fifteen new kicks.
To support himself, Bimba worked as a coal miner, carpenter, warehouse worker, longshoreman, and horse coach conductor—all physically demanding occupations that kept him strong. He reportedly could carry 120 kg as a dock worker.
In 1928, Bimba achieved a breakthrough: a demonstration at the palace of Bahia's Governor Juracy Magalhães. This performance helped convince authorities of capoeira's cultural value, contributing to the end of its official ban (which had been in effect since 1890) in 1930.
In 1932, Bimba founded Brazil's first official capoeira academy: the Centro de Cultura Física e Luta Regional, at Engenho de Brotas in Salvador. Advisors recommended omitting "Capoeira" from the name due to lingering social stigma. The academy received state board of education certification on June 9, 1937—the first formal government recognition of any capoeira institution.
Bimba created revolutionary teaching innovations: eight predefined "sequências" (sequences) for beginners; "cintura desprezada" for advanced grappling training (developed partly in response to jiu-jitsu's popularity); a formal graduation system using colored silk handkerchiefs (blue for batizado, red for formado, yellow for formado especializado, white for mestre); and the charanga bateria with one berimbau and two pandeiros.
His academy had strict rules: white uniforms, proof of school grade proficiency, no smoking during training, no alcohol. This discipline attracted doctors, lawyers, politicians, and—for the first time—women to capoeira practice.
In 1935, Cobrinha Verde began giving instruction to Bimba at Fazenda Garcia and helping him teach students at Bogum—an interesting detail showing collaboration even between what would become competing styles.
In 1936, Bimba issued a famous challenge to fighters of any martial art style. Under boxing-like rules developed by Anibal Burlamaqui, he faced four opponents: Henrique Bahia, Vítor Benedito Lopes, Américo Ciência, and fellow capoeirista José Custódio "Zé I" dos Santos. Bimba won all matches, earning the nickname "Três Pancadas" (Three Hits)—meaning he only needed three strikes to finish opponents.
In 1939, Bimba began teaching military recruits at CPOR (Centro de Preparação de Oficiais da Reserva). In 1942, he opened a second academy at Terreiro de Jesus on Rua das Laranjeiras, which remains operational today.
On July 23, 1953, President Getúlio Vargas witnessed Bimba's demonstration at the Aclamação Palace in Salvador. Vargas declared: "Capoeira is the only sport which is truly Brazilian!"
Bimba formally graduated only four students to mestre level (white handkerchief) during his lifetime: Angelo Augusto Decânio Filho, Jair Moura, Miranda, and Edinho. However, dozens of his students became influential mestres who spread Regional worldwide, including: Acordeon, Itapoan, Atenilo, Ezequiel, Camisa Roxa, Nenel, Cafuné, Carlos Senna, Damião, and many others.
His student Cisnando Lima, who was trained in judo under Mitsuyo Maeda and Takeo Yano, helped connect Bimba to Governor Juracy Magalhães and played a key role in the political efforts to legalize capoeira.
In 1973, disappointed by lack of government support in Bahia, Bimba moved to Goiânia at a former student's invitation. The promises of opportunity proved false, and he lived in poverty.
On February 5, 1974, Mestre Bimba died from a stroke at the Hospital das Clínicas de Goiânia. He was initially buried in Goiânia, but on July 20, 1978, his remains were transferred to Salvador, where they now rest in the church of Santo Antônio Além do Carmo.
On June 12, 1996, Bimba was posthumously awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the Federal University of Bahia. The Fundação Mestre Bimba, established in 1994 under his son Mestre Nenel's leadership, continues to preserve his legacy.
His famous declaration: "I didn't do capoeira for myself... I did it for the world".
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68
Baptized3
Bimba led the baptism of Onça Tigre1939
Received apelido "Onça Tigre" (Tiger Jaguar) from Mestre Bimba upon graduation from his first class.
Bimba gave the apelido Cafuné to Cafuné at a baptism1967
Location: Nordeste de Amaralina, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Received apelido at batizado ceremony in Nordeste de Amaralina. Bimba declared: "his name is Cafuné—he doesn't play capoeira, he does cafuné" (a gentle caress).
Verified[2][3]- [2]Há 100 anos, o baiano Mestre Bimba criou a capoeira regional, A Tarde, 18 December 2018
- [3]MESTRE CAFUNÉ: "a capoeira representa um divisor de águas", Blog do Márcio Wesley, 11 March 2021
Bimba gave the apelido Xaréu to Xaréu at a baptism
Received the apelido "Xaréu" (a fish species) from Mestre Bimba during his training at CCFR.
Granted titles to8
Bimba granted the title of Formado to Damião1947
Received formado graduation with medal and diploma from Mestre Bimba
Bimba granted the title of Mestre to Acordeonc. 1960
Acordeon is one of only ten mestres certified by Mestre Bimba, Patron of Capoeira. Exact date unknown but likely early 1960s based on opening his first academy in 1959.
Verified[4]- [4]USAdojo, Mesa Capoeira - "one of ten mestres certified by Mestre Bimba" (reference incomplete)
Bimba granted the title of Mestre to Joel1972
Formally recognized as mestre by Mestre Bimba himself in 1972
Bimba granted the title of Mestre to Suassuna1972
Location: São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
In 1972, Mestre Bimba visited Suassuna in São Paulo and awarded him a certificate recognizing his work and his status as mestre. Some sources say 1975.
Bimba granted the title of Mestre to Decânio
One of only four students formally graduated to mestre level (white handkerchief) by Mestre Bimba during his lifetime. The others were Jair Moura, Miranda, and Edinho (the latter two now deceased).
Bimba granted the title of Mestre to Jair Moura
One of only four students formally graduated to mestre level (white handkerchief) by Mestre Bimba during his lifetime. According to Mestre Nenel (Bimba's son): "He was the last capoeirista to receive the Lenço Branco from my father". The others were Decânio, Miranda, and Edinho (the latter two deceased before Bimba).
Bimba granted the title of Mestre to Miranda
One of only four students to receive the white handkerchief (lenço branco) directly from Mestre Bimba during his lifetime. The others were Decânio, Jair Moura, and Edinho.
Verified[7][8][9]- [7]Mestre Edinho depoimento, Mestre Edinho (reference incomplete)
- [8]Lecture on Mestre Pastinha and Capoeira Angola, Capoeira Connection
- [9]Contramestre e não mestrando:Mestrando em Capoeira?, Portal Capoeira, article text(accessed 2 November 2026)
Segundo Mestre Edinho, os únicos a receberem o título de Mestre da Regional Baiana pelas próprias mãos de Mestre Bimba foram, Jair Moura, Miranda, Decânio e o próprio Edinho.
Bimba granted the title of Mestre to Edinho
One of only four students to receive the lenço branco (white handkerchief) directly from Mestre Bimba's hands—the highest honor in Capoeira Regional. The four recipients were: Decânio, Jair Moura, Miranda, and Edinho. Exact date unknown but before Bimba's death (1974).
Verified[8][10]- [8]Lecture on Mestre Pastinha and Capoeira Angola, Capoeira Connection
- [10]Mestre Edinho quote (reference incomplete)
Student of1
Bimba student of Bentinho1911 – 1915
Bimba began learning capoeira from Bentinho at age 12, at Clube União em Apuros on Estrada das Boiadas. Training lasted approximately four years.
Teacher of38
Bimba teacher of Atenilo1929 – 5 February 1974
Atenilo was Bimba's oldest student, starting in 1929 before the academy was officially founded. Witnessed the creation of Capoeira Regional at Bogum. He remained Bimba's student for 45 years until Bimba's death in 1974.
Verified[12]- [12]Atenilo, o Relâmpago da Capoeira Regional, Mestre Itapoan (reference incomplete), 1988
Bimba teacher of Cisnando1932 – 5 February 1974
Cisnando found Bimba in the Curuzú neighborhood of Liberdade while studying medicine. Though initially refused because capoeira was "for Black people", Cisnando endured Bimba's gravata test (three minutes in a neck lock) and was accepted. More than a student, Cisnando became a collaborator who contributed academic methodology to Bimba's system.
Bimba teacher of Onça Tigre1937 – 1939
Part of Mestre Bimba's first graduating class. 1939 photograph documents graduation of Maia, Decânio, and Onça Tigre. Described as "o aluno mais ilustre do grande Mestre" (the most illustrious student of the great Master). Served as monitor at CPOR academy under Bimba's supervision.
Bimba teacher of Decânio1938 – 5 February 1974
Decânio began training with Bimba in 1938 at age 16 while studying medicine. He kept this secret from his family initially. Bimba adopted him "like a son" from the first day. The relationship lasted 36 years until Bimba's death on February 5, 1974.
Bimba teacher of Damião1945 – 1947
Started at age 16-17 in Salvador; received formado medal and diploma from Bimba in 1947
Bimba teacher of Carlos Senna1949 – 25 October 1955
Carlos Senna began training at Mestre Bimba's Centro de Cultura Física Regional in 1949 at age 18. He completed his formatura (graduation) in 1950, earned the nickname "Senna Preto", was appointed Technical Director in 1954, and departed on October 25, 1955 to found Senavox.
Verified[14][15]- [14]Mestre Pastinha loses to Bruce Lee, Paolo Marconi, República Esporte (via Velhos Mestres), 2 January 1980(accessed 2 November 2026)
Carlos Senna, 48, capoeira mestre and ex-student of Bimba, plays since 1949
- [15]ABCA (reference incomplete)
- [14]Mestre Pastinha loses to Bruce Lee, Paolo Marconi, República Esporte (via Velhos Mestres), 2 January 1980(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Vermelho 271953 – 5 February 1974
Met Bimba in 1952; began formal training in 1953 at CCFR. Graduated 1956. One of Bimba's ten best students. Bimba called him "Maluco por Capoeira" (Crazy about Capoeira). Ended with Bimba's death in 1974.
Verified[16][17]- [16]Vermelho 27, CapoeiraWiki(accessed 2 November 2026)
Mestre Vermelho 27 began training capoeira in 1953 under Mestre Bimba at the Centro de Cultura Física Regional
- [17]UNICAR München (reference incomplete)
- [16]Vermelho 27, CapoeiraWiki(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Acordeon1958 – 5 February 1974
Primary teacher relationship. Acordeon entered Mestre Bimba's academy in 1958 and became one of only ten mestres certified by Bimba. He was considered one of the best disciples of Mestre Bimba.
Verified[18][19]- [18]Mestre Acordeon, La Laue(accessed 2 November 2026)
Acordeon was a student of the legendary Mestre Bimba in the late 1950s and began teaching Capoeira in the early 1960s.
- [19]Prabook (reference incomplete)
- [18]Mestre Acordeon, La Laue(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Jair Moura1958 – 5 February 1974
Jair Moura began training with Mestre Bimba in the late 1950s. According to Mestre Nenel: "He was a student of my father since the 1950s". The relationship lasted until Bimba's death on February 5, 1974. Nenel described him as "one of the guys most well-regarded by my father".
Verified[6][20]- [20]Jair Moura - CapoeiraWiki, CapoeiraWiki(accessed 2 November 2026)
His relationship with the art form began in the late 1950s when he became a disciple of Manuel dos Reis Machado
- [6]Mestre Nenel testimony, Correio 24 Horas (reference incomplete)
- [20]Jair Moura - CapoeiraWiki, CapoeiraWiki(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Camisa Roxa1963 – 5 February 1974
Entered Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador in 1962 or 1963. Considered the best student by his Mestre. Graduated as aluno formado.
Verified[21]- [21]Sobre Grão Mestre Camisa Roxa, Abadá Rodos (abadarodos.wordpress.com), biography page(accessed 2 November 2026)
Na década de 60, foi para Salvador fazer o científico e começou a treinar na Academia de Mestre Bimba, onde se formou
- [21]Sobre Grão Mestre Camisa Roxa, Abadá Rodos (abadarodos.wordpress.com), biography page(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Ezequiel1964 – 1972
Introduced to Bimba by Mestre Saci in the mid-1960s. Graduated with lenço azul alongside Mestre Galo. Training ended when Bimba left for Goiânia in 1972.
Bimba teacher of SaciJuly 1964 – 5 February 1974
Trained at Mestre Bimba's Centro de Cultura Física e Luta Regional from July 1964 until Bimba's death in February 1974. Witnessed historical developments at the academy.
Verified[17][23]- [23]Die Meister, UNICAR München (capoeira-muenchen.de)(accessed 2 November 2026)
Mestre Saci begann mit der Capoeira Regional im Juli 1964 an der Akademie von Mestre Bimba.
- [17]UNICAR München (reference incomplete)
- [23]Die Meister, UNICAR München (capoeira-muenchen.de)(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Itapoan22 September 1964 – 1972
Began training September 22, 1964 at Centro de Cultura Física Regional, Terreiro de Jesus, Salvador. Completed all courses: blue scarf (1965), red scarf (1966), yellow scarf (1967). Champion at Bimba's graduate tournament (1970). Training ended when Bimba moved to Goiânia in 1972.
Verified[24][25]- [24]Mestre Itapoan Regional, Lalaue(accessed 2 November 2026)
On September 22, 1964, he began studying Capoeira Regional with Mestre Bimba.
- [25]Ginga website (reference incomplete)
- [24]Mestre Itapoan Regional, Lalaue(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Nenel1966 – 5 February 1974
Primary teacher. Nenel began formal capoeira training at age 6 in 1966, graduating with blue scarf in June 1967. Training continued until Bimba's death in February 1974. Nenel was both son and student of Mestre Bimba.
Bimba teacher of Cafuné1966 – 1971
Began training in 1966 after reading newspaper interview with Bimba. Traveled from Polo Petroquímico de Camaçari to Pelourinho. Graduated August 1967. Remained until Bimba left for Goiânia in 1971.
Verified[2][3][27]- [2]Há 100 anos, o baiano Mestre Bimba criou a capoeira regional, A Tarde, 18 December 2018
- [27]Mestres | XIV Clínica de Capoeira do CEPEUSP, XIV Clínica de Capoeira do CEPEUSP, 2014
- [3]MESTRE CAFUNÉ: "a capoeira representa um divisor de águas", Blog do Márcio Wesley, 11 March 2021
Bimba teacher of Macarrão1967 – 1969
Trained at Centro de Cultura Física Regional in Salvador during the propagation phase (1967-1973). Graduated as aluno formado in 1969 alongside Camisa, Onça Negra, and Torpedo.
Bimba teacher of Xaréu1967 – 1973
Trained at Centro de Cultura Física Regional (CCFR) during the "Propagation Phase" (1967-1973), the final era of Bimba's academy. Received the apelido "Xaréu" from Mestre Bimba. Completed full formação in Capoeira Regional.
Bimba teacher of Onça Negra1967 – 1969
Onça Negra was a student at Mestre Bimba's Centro de Cultura Física Regional in Salvador. He graduated as aluno formado in 1969 alongside Camisa, Macarrão, and Torpedo. Training period estimated to start around 1967 based on Camisa's timeline (joined at age 12 in 1967, graduated at 14 in 1969).
Bimba teacher of Camisa1967 – 1969
Joined Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador at age 12 (1967). Graduated as aluno formado at age 14 in 1969. Fourth family member to graduate from Bimba's course. Graduation companions: Macarrão, Onça Negra, Torpedo.
Verified[31]- [31]ABADÁ-Capoeira, Wikipedia, Camisa biography section(accessed 2 November 2026)
When Camisa turned 12 years old, Camisa Roxa convinced their mother to allow him to attend Mestre Bimba's academy
- [31]ABADÁ-Capoeira, Wikipedia, Camisa biography section(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Galo1960s – 1970s
Trained at Centro de Cultura Física e Luta Regional in Terreiro de Jesus, Salvador. Graduated with lenço azul (blue handkerchief) indicating formado status. Listed among notable students of the propagation phase (1967-1973). Graduated alongside Eziquiel Martins Marinho (Mestre Ezequiel).
Bimba teacher of Pedrinho1960s – 5 February 1974
Trained at Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador alongside brothers Ermival and José Tadeu (Camisa). Graduated as aluno formado. Start date estimated mid-1960s based on family timeline.
Bimba teacher of Ermival1960s – 5 February 1974
Followed his older brother Camisa Roxa to Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador. Graduated as aluno formado alongside brothers Pedrinho and José Tadeu (Mestre Camisa).
Verified[21]- [21]Sobre Grão Mestre Camisa Roxa, Abadá Rodos (abadarodos.wordpress.com)(accessed 2 November 2026)
Seus irmãos Ermival, Pedrinho e Camisa também se formaram na Academia de Bimba.
- [21]Sobre Grão Mestre Camisa Roxa, Abadá Rodos (abadarodos.wordpress.com)(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Formiga? – June 1967
Trained under his father at Centro de Cultura Física Regional in Salvador; graduated June 1967 alongside half-brother Nenel
Bimba teacher of Vinte e Nove
Direct disciple of Mestre Bimba according to 1982 O Globo article listing prominent Regional mestres in Salvador
Verified[33][34]- [33]velhosmestres.com: cobrinha 1982 3(accessed 2 November 2026)
quase todos discípulos diretos do legendário „Bimba“ – destacam-se „Itapuã“, „Vinte e Nove“
- [34]O Globo, 1982-02-16, O Globo (reference incomplete), 16 February 1982
- [33]velhosmestres.com: cobrinha 1982 3(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba teacher of Capazans
The 1982 O Globo article lists Capazans among Regional mestres who were "almost all direct disciples of the legendary Bimba". Without additional sources confirming direct training, using "likely" confidence.
Bimba teacher of Banduê
Listed in 1982 O Globo article as one of the Regional mestres who were "almost all direct disciples of the legendary Bimba". Training dates unknown.
Bimba teacher of Torpedo? – 1969
Torpedo graduated as aluno formado from Mestre Bimba's Centro de Cultura Física Regional in 1969, alongside Camisa, Macarrão, and Onça Negra. Graduation ceremony at Nordeste de Amaralina.
Bimba teacher of Onça
Onça was a certified disciple of Mestre Bimba who learned the fundamentals of Capoeira Regional. Exact training dates unknown.
Bimba teacher of Brás Amansa Brabo? – 5 February 1974
Training start date unknown. Relationship ended with Bimba's death on Feb 5, 1974. Named as direct disciple in 1982 O Globo article and as one of Bimba's most trusted companions in Atenilo's testimony.
Verified[12][33]- [33]velhosmestres.com: cobrinha 1982 3
- [12]Atenilo, o Relâmpago da Capoeira Regional, Mestre Itapoan (reference incomplete), 1988
Bimba teacher of Salário Mínimo? – 5 February 1974
Trained at Centro de Cultura Física Regional da Bahia in Salvador. Training ended with Bimba's death in February 1974.
Bimba teacher of Miranda
One of only four students to receive the white handkerchief (mestre graduation) directly from Mestre Bimba. Trained at Centro de Cultura Física e Luta Regional in Salvador. Exact training dates unknown.
Verified[7][8]- [7]Mestre Edinho depoimento, Mestre Edinho (reference incomplete)
- [8]Lecture on Mestre Pastinha and Capoeira Angola, Capoeira Connection
Bimba teacher of Edinho
Edinho was a student at Bimba's Centro de Cultura Física e Luta Regional in Salvador. Start and end dates unknown. Edinho died before Bimba (1974).
Bimba teacher of Zoião
Primary teacher; trained at Centro de Cultura Física Regional in Salvador. Exact dates unknown but was classmate of Maneca Brandão and experienced enough to help teach in 1958.
Bimba teacher of Crispim? – 1974
Primary teacher. Crispim was Bimba's eldest son and trained under him from childhood. Ended with Bimba's death in 1974.
Bimba teacher of Preguiça? – 1963
Preguiça trained at Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador, Bahia, before moving to Rio de Janeiro in 1963. This formal training provided the Regional foundation for his later Senzala methodology.
Bimba teacher of Perez
Fernando Rodrigues Perez trained at Mestre Bimba's academy and represented it in the 1949 challenge against Sinhozinho's school. The Globo Esportivo newspaper identified him as "capoeira de Mestre Bimba".
Verified[43][44]- [43]nossa-tribo.com: mestre sinhozinho
- [44]Globo Esportivo, 1949-04-07 (reference incomplete), 7 April 1949
Bimba teacher of Maneca Brandão
Trained at Mestre Bimba's Centro de Cultura Física Regional in Salvador. Zoião was his classmate. Multiple sources confirm: "Maneca Brandão, aluno do Mestre Bimba".
Bimba teacher of Jurandir
Jurandir trained at Mestre Bimba's academy and represented it in the 1949 challenge against Sinhozinho's school
Trained under2
Bimba trained under Cobrinha Verde1935 – 5 February 1974
Cobrinha Verde stated: "I would leave Fazenda Garcia to give instruction to Bimba and help him give instructions to his students, at Bogum, Engenho Velho da Federação".
Verified[47]- [47]Cobrinha Verde testimony in "Capoeira e Mandingas" (1991) (reference incomplete), 1991
Bimba trained under Luiz Cândido Machado
Bimba learned batuque techniques from his father, who was a champion of this combat sport. These techniques (banda armada, banda fechada, encruzilhada, rapa, cruz de carreira, baú) were later incorporated into Capoeira Regional.
Guided the training of16
Bimba guided the training of Gigante1940s – 5 February 1974
After training in Angola tradition with Cobrinha Verde and Pastinha, Gigante "changed parties" (mudou de partido) and went to train at Mestre Bimba's Regional academy. Bimba considered him "the best berimbau player in Bahia".
Bimba guided the training of Maria Pára o Bonde1940s – 1950s
Maria Pára o Bonde was listed among the female students of Mestre Bimba during the 1940s-1950s, alongside Nega Didi, Maria Homem, Satanás, and Calça Rala. These women reportedly disguised as men to participate in rodas.
Bimba guided the training of Nega Didi1940s – 1950s
Nega Didi was listed among the female students of Mestre Bimba during the 1940s-1950s, alongside Satanás, Maria Homem, Maria para o bonde, and Calça Rala. These women reportedly disguised as men to participate in rodas.
Bimba guided the training of Leopardo Negro1940s – 5 February 1974
Waldemar Santana trained Capoeira Regional under Mestre Bimba in Salvador during his youth. Multiple sources confirm this, describing him as training "during his youth in Salvador under the guidance of Mestre Manoel dos Reis Machado, known as Mestre Bimba". This capoeira foundation became the base for his later vale-tudo fighting career.
Bimba guided the training of Satanás1940s – 1950s
Satanás was listed among the female students of Mestre Bimba during the 1940s-1950s, alongside Nega Didi, Maria Homem, Maria para o bonde, and Calça Rala. These women reportedly disguised as men to participate in rodas.
Bimba guided the training of Suassuna1950s – 5 February 1974
Suassuna visited Bimba's terreiro in Salvador during trips from Itabuna to expand his knowledge. Bimba became a primary reference for his work and later recognized him as mestre in 1972.
Bimba guided the training of Silvestre1950s – 5 February 1974
Trained some classes with Mestre Bimba; extent of training unclear
Bimba guided the training of Baiano1962 – 1962
Completed Mestre Bimba's Regional Capoeira course in Salvador in 1962, expanding his technical repertoire beyond his Angola foundation under Canjiquinha.
Bimba guided the training of Paulo Flores1963 – 1963
Two months of intensive training at Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador during school vacations in early 1963. Paulo trained alongside his brother Rafael. A capoeirista cousin introduced Paulo to Bimba's academy.
Bimba guided the training of Rafael Flores1963 – 1963
Two months of intensive training at Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador during school vacations in early 1963. Rafael trained alongside his brother Paulo. A capoeirista cousin introduced the Flores brothers to Bimba's academy.
Verified[53][54][55]- [54]capoeira.fandom.com: centro cultural senzala
- [53]senzala.co.uk: history
- [55]Mestre Gato Preto 1984 (Velhos Mestres), velhosmestres.com
Bimba guided the training of Gilberto Flores1963 – 5 February 1974
Multiple sources confirm all three Flores brothers trained with Mestre Bimba during school vacations in Salvador. While Paulo and Rafael's two-month training in early 1963 is specifically documented, Gilberto's training is described as part of the group ("the brothers trained with Bimba").
Bimba guided the training of Lua Rasta1968 – 1969
Trained with Bimba for one year (1968) before transferring to Canjiquinha.
Verified[57]- [57]Mestre Lua Rasta – Last.fm biography, Last.fm(accessed 2 November 2026)
He began learning capoeira with Mestre Bimba in 1968.
- [57]Mestre Lua Rasta – Last.fm biography, Last.fm(accessed 2 November 2026)
Bimba guided the training of Genic. 1968 – 5 February 1974
Entered Bimba's academy as "beginner" student through friendship with Tarzan (Bimba's student). Bimba did not accept students from other teachers, so this was the only way in. Graduated from Bimba's school.
Bimba guided the training of Jelon1969 – 5 February 1974
Attended classes at Mestre Bimba's Centro de Cultura Física e Luta Regional. Not a primary student but trained there through Ezequiel's connection.
Bimba guided the training of Arraia1960s – 1960s
Associated with Associação de Capoeira Mestre Bimba in Salvador during 1960s; trained alongside Acordeon, Sena, Gildo Alfinete, and Roberto Satanás
Bimba guided the training of Wilson Sereno
Wilson Sereno "studied with Mestre Bimba" (Manuel dos Reis Machado, 1899-1974) according to CapoeiraHub. Bimba was the founder of Capoeira Regional. This cross-lineage training—studying under both Angola (Caiçara, Cobrinha Verde) and Regional (Bimba) mestres—was not unusual for serious capoeiristas in mid-20th century Salvador. Designated as trained_under rather than student_of since Caiçara is specified as the primary teacher.
2
Led1
Bimba led Associação de Capoeira Mestre Bimba1932 – 1973
Bimba led the school from its founding in 1932, under its earlier names, until he moved to Goiânia in 1973. The name Associação de Capoeira Mestre Bimba dates from 1975.
Unverified[62][63][64]- [62]Manuel dos Reis Machado, Wikipedia, biography; 1942 second school at Terreiro de Jesus, still supervised by Vermelho(accessed 15 October 2026)
- [63]Associação De Capoeira Mestre Bimba, Lalaue(accessed 15 October 2026)
- [63]Associação De Capoeira Mestre Bimba, Lalaue, history section(accessed 15 October 2026)
his second (and most historically recognized) capoeira school in Salvador
- [64]Mestre Vermelho 27 Regional, Lalaue, search snippet: 'when Mestre Bimba leaved to Goiânia (1972)' he took responsibility for the Terreiro de Jesus academy; this gives 1972 for the end date, not 1973(accessed 15 October 2026)
Founded1
Bimba founded Associação de Capoeira Mestre Bimba1932
Likely[62][65]- [62]Manuel dos Reis Machado, Wikipedia(accessed 15 October 2026)
founded the first capoeira school in 1932
- [65]Mestre Bimba Regional, Lalaue(accessed 15 October 2026)
- [62]Manuel dos Reis Machado, Wikipedia(accessed 15 October 2026)
17
Associated with16
Bimba was associated with Vítor Benedito Lopes1936 – 1936
Bimba's use of hand strikes against Vítor sparked controversy about technique rules. Police chief Lúcio Barra Preta allegedly lost money betting on this fight.
Bimba was associated with Américo Ciência1936 – 1936
Also fought exhibition match vs Henrique Bahia at Parque Odeon (Feb 18, 1936) with undecided outcome.
Bimba was associated with Henrique Bahia7 February 1936 – 7 February 1936
First to accept Bimba's newspaper challenge. Bimba called him "digno adversário" (worthy adversary).
Bimba was associated with Querido de Deus12 March 1936 –
Public challenge over the title of "maximum capoeira master" of Bahia. Bimba responded that Samuel should arrange a fight "so people are not deceived". No record of the fight occurring.
Bimba was associated with Zé I18 March 1936 – 18 March 1936
Scored only 2 points: one meia lua/armada hit and one tesoura hit. His defeat was significant as a direct test of Bimba's Regional against traditional capoeira.
Bimba was associated with Zuma1930s –
Documented that Bimba studied methods of Sinhozinho, Mario Aleixo, and Zuma. Bimba's famous 1936 challenges against Henrique Bahia, Vítor Benedito Lopes, Américo Ciência, and José Custódio "Zé I" dos Santos were conducted under Zuma's 1928 ruleset.
Bimba was associated with Pastinha1941 – 1973
The "two fathers" of modern capoeira: Pastinha (Angola) and Bimba (Regional). Both operated academies in Salvador simultaneously (1941-1973).
Bimba was associated with Waldemar1940s – 1960s
Contemporary mestres who practiced together despite their different approaches. Waldemar (Angola) and Bimba (Regional) both operated in Salvador during the 1940s-1960s.
Verified[71]- [71]Diário de Notícias 1970 interview: Waldemar said he had "vadiado" with Pastinha, Bimba, and Totonho Maré (reference incomplete), 1970
Bimba was associated with Traíra1954 –
Both appeared in the pioneering capoeira film "Vadiação" (1954) by Alexandre Robatto Filho. Though Bimba taught Regional and Traíra practiced Angola under Waldemar, they were contemporaries in Salvador's capoeira scene.
Bimba was associated with Gato Preto1950s –
Contemporaries in Salvador. A 1976 newspaper article described Gato Preto as comparable to legendary masters Bimba, Pastinha, Cobrinha Verde, and Besouro.
Bimba was associated with Tiburcinho1950s –
Key cultural collaboration: Tiburcinho helped preserve traditional songs and revived maculelê, which had nearly been lost. This partnership with Bimba ensured maculelê would become part of modern capoeira practice worldwide.
Bimba was associated with Espinho Remoso1960 –
Both named as outstanding capoeiristas of the Liberdade neighborhood in 1960.
Verified[75][76]- [75]Mestre Espinho Remoso, Wikipédia
- [76]Jornal Metropolitano, 1960 (reference incomplete), 1960
Bimba was associated with Artur Emídio1967 –
Documented meeting at 1967 symposium. Not a teacher-student relationship. Artur's academy was described as based on "the systematized method of Mestre Bimba" but this was learned through his own lineage (Paizinho), not directly from Bimba.
Bimba was associated with Caiçara1960s – November 1972
Famous confrontation at Amaralina graduation event in the 1960s. Caiçara declared himself "the master" and was defeated by Bimba's devastating bênção. Bimba's response: "Isso é que é jogo de perna, meu filho" (That's footwork, my son). In November 1972, Caiçara apologized: "I am Bahia's third master after you and Mestre Pastinha. Forgive my arrogance; don't leave. Bahia needs you".
Bimba was associated with Gilvan1971 –
Bimba visited São Paulo in 1971 at invitation of Mestre Onça; personally recognized Gilvan as one of the "Grupo dos Nove" (Group of Nine) pioneers of capoeira in São Paulo
Bimba was associated with Adilson1972 – 1973
Adilson met Bimba in Goiânia 1972-1973 at Mestre Osvaldo's academy. Played in roda with Bimba directing and Mestre Gigante on pandeiro. Defeated Mestre Onça (Bimba's adopted son). Bimba later inquired about Adilson's student Leonides ("Diabo louro").
Influenced1
Bimba influenced Gato1968 –
Gato visited Mestre Bimba's academy in Salvador in 1968. This was a pilgrimage to the source of Capoeira Regional that many Senzala members undertook, but not sustained formal training.
4
Family4
Formiga is a child of Bimba
Son of Mestre Bimba with Dona Nair; one of 13 children
Nenel is a child of Bimba
Biological son. Nenel is the son of Mestre Bimba and Berenice da Conceição Nascimento. He continues his father's legacy as guardian of authentic Capoeira Regional.
Luiz Cândido Machado is a parent of Bimba
Luiz Cândido Machado was Mestre Bimba's father. Bimba was born November 23, 1899.
Crispim is a child of Bimba
Eldest son of Mestre Bimba with Maria dos Anjos (first partner).
1
Active in: Bahia, Brazil
1928 –
- 91
- statements
- 66
- · 73%
- with a source
- 25
- without a source
- 0
- disputed
Relations by confidence
- Verified: 81
- Likely: 9
- Unverified: 1
Sources cited
- [1]iesambi.org.br: mestreoncatigre ×2cited 2 times
- [2]Há 100 anos, o baiano Mestre Bimba criou a capoeira regional, A Tarde ×2cited 2 times
- [3]MESTRE CAFUNÉ: "a capoeira representa um divisor de águas", Blog do Márcio Wesley ×2cited 2 times
- [4]USAdojo, Mesa Capoeira - "one of ten mestres certified by Mestre Bimba" ×1cited 1 time
- [5]velhosmestres.com: destaques 54 ×1cited 1 time
- [6]Mestre Nenel testimony, Correio 24 Horas ×2cited 2 times
- [7]Mestre Edinho depoimento, Mestre Edinho ×2cited 2 times
- [8]Lecture on Mestre Pastinha and Capoeira Angola, Capoeira Connection ×3cited 3 times
- [9]Contramestre e não mestrando:Mestrando em Capoeira?, Portal Capoeira ×1cited 1 time
- [10]Mestre Edinho quote ×1cited 1 time
- [11]Bimba's own 1936 interview in A Tarde newspaper ×1cited 1 time
- [12]Atenilo, o Relâmpago da Capoeira Regional, Mestre Itapoan ×2cited 2 times
- [13]capoeiradabahia.portalcapoeira.com: dr jos qcisnandoq lima a pedra fundamental da regional ×1cited 1 time
- [14]Mestre Pastinha loses to Bruce Lee, Paolo Marconi, República Esporte (via Velhos Mestres) ×1cited 1 time
- [15]ABCA ×1cited 1 time
- [16]Vermelho 27, CapoeiraWiki ×1cited 1 time
- [17]UNICAR München ×2cited 2 times
- [18]Mestre Acordeon, La Laue ×1cited 1 time
- [19]Prabook ×1cited 1 time
- [20]Jair Moura - CapoeiraWiki, CapoeiraWiki ×1cited 1 time
- [21]Sobre Grão Mestre Camisa Roxa, Abadá Rodos (abadarodos.wordpress.com) ×2cited 2 times
- [22]https://velhosmestres.com/br/destaques-16 ×1cited 1 time
- [23]Die Meister, UNICAR München (capoeira-muenchen.de) ×1cited 1 time
- [24]Mestre Itapoan Regional, Lalaue ×1cited 1 time
- [25]Ginga website ×1cited 1 time
- [26]fundacaomestrebimba.org.br: mestre nenel ×2cited 2 times
- [27]Mestres | XIV Clínica de Capoeira do CEPEUSP, XIV Clínica de Capoeira do CEPEUSP ×1cited 1 time
- [28]Mestre Camisa interview, Mestre Camisa ×1cited 1 time
- [29]Conversando sobre capoeira, Esdras M. Santos ×2cited 2 times
- [30]capoeira-connection.com interview with Mestre Camisa ×1cited 1 time
- [31]ABADÁ-Capoeira, Wikipedia ×1cited 1 time
- [32]Hélio Campos (Mestre Xaréu), "Capoeira Regional: a escola de Mestre Bimba" (UFBA) ×1cited 1 time
- [33]velhosmestres.com: cobrinha 1982 3 ×3cited 3 times
- [34]O Globo, 1982-02-16, O Globo ×2cited 2 times
- [35]journals.openedition.org: 748 ×1cited 1 time
- [36]maltabrasil.de: mestre gladson ×1cited 1 time
- [37]Abolição Capoeira Angers website ×1cited 1 time
- [38]CapoeiraHub lineage listing ×1cited 1 time
- [39]Capoeira Connection lectures ×1cited 1 time
- [40]CDO Sergipe, Capoeira Alto Astral ×1cited 1 time
- [41]capoeira-connection.com: interview mestre preguica ×1cited 1 time
- [42]simplycapoeira.co.nz: senzala ×1cited 1 time
- [43]nossa-tribo.com: mestre sinhozinho ×1cited 1 time
- [44]Globo Esportivo, 1949-04-07 ×1cited 1 time
- [45]cdosergipe.wixsite.com: mestre suassuna ×1cited 1 time
- [46]portalcapoeira.com: itabuna lancamento do livro capoeira de luta de negro a exercicio de branco no cenario grapiuna ×1cited 1 time
- [47]Cobrinha Verde testimony in "Capoeira e Mandingas" (1991) ×1cited 1 time
- [48]Waldeloir Rego 1968 ×1cited 1 time
- [49]Mestre Gigante (Francisco de Assis) - Velhos Mestres, velhosmestres.com ×1cited 1 time
- [50]matumbecapoeira.com: mestres ×1cited 1 time
- [51]capoeiraengenho.wordpress.com (via web search results) ×1cited 1 time
- [52]capoeirailhagrande.wordpress.com: o grupo senzala ×1cited 1 time
- [53]senzala.co.uk: history ×3cited 3 times
- [54]capoeira.fandom.com: centro cultural senzala ×2cited 2 times
- [55]Mestre Gato Preto 1984 (Velhos Mestres), velhosmestres.com ×1cited 1 time
- [56]lalaue.com: grupo senzala capoeira ×1cited 1 time
- [57]Mestre Lua Rasta – Last.fm biography, Last.fm ×1cited 1 time
- [58]danceprogram.duke.edu: mestre jelon vieira ×1cited 1 time
- [59]festival.si.edu: smithsonian ×1cited 1 time
- [60]Mestre Arraia, Lalaue ×1cited 1 time
- [61]capoeirahub.net: 693dbe24de8a6d001517e9fe mestre wilson sereno ×1cited 1 time
- [62]Manuel dos Reis Machado, Wikipedia ×3cited 3 times
- [63]Associação De Capoeira Mestre Bimba, Lalaue ×1cited 1 time
- [64]Mestre Vermelho 27 Regional, Lalaue ×1cited 1 time
- [65]Mestre Bimba Regional, Lalaue ×1cited 1 time
- [66]Jornal A Tarde, 1936-03-16 ×3cited 3 times
- [67]Estado da Bahia, 1936 ×1cited 1 time
- [68]Diário de Notícias, Feb 7, 1936 ×1cited 1 time
- [69]O Imparcial (March 12, 1936) ×1cited 1 time
- [70]Diário da Bahia, 1936-03-13 ×1cited 1 time
- [71]Diário de Notícias 1970 interview: Waldemar said he had "vadiado" with Pastinha, Bimba, and Totonho Maré ×1cited 1 time
- [72]Correio Braziliense 1976 ×1cited 1 time
- [73]capoeira.online: mestre tiburcinho ×1cited 1 time
- [74]velhosmestres.com: destaques 32 ×1cited 1 time
- [75]Mestre Espinho Remoso, Wikipédia ×1cited 1 time
- [76]Jornal Metropolitano, 1960 ×1cited 1 time
- [77]nossa-tribo.com: mestre artur emidio ×1cited 1 time
- [78]Velhos Mestres - featured ×1cited 1 time
- [79]portalcapoeira.com: entrevista mestre adilson ×1cited 1 time