More actions
Mestre Jogo de Dentro, born Jorge Egidio dos Santos on April 6, 1965, in Alagoinhas, Bahia, Brazil, is a Capoeira Angola master. His journey in capoeira began in 1982 at Forte Santo Antônio in Salvador, Bahia, where he joined the renowned Academia of Mestre João Pequeno de Pastinha.
Early Years and Baptism into Capoeira
In 1982, at the age of 17, Jogo de Dentro began training under Mestre João Pequeno, one of the most respected masters of Capoeira Angola, who had been a direct student of Mestre Pastinha, the legendary proponent of Capoeira Angola. Within a year of his training, he was baptized with the nickname "Jogo de Dentro" by Mestre João Grande, another illustrious figure in the capoeira community. This nickname, which translates to "Inside Game," reflects his deep understanding of the strategic and subtle aspects of capoeira, a hallmark of the Angola style.
Teaching and Early Challenges
In 1986, Jogo de Dentro received his first degree as a teacher of Capoeira Angola. Understanding the responsibility that came with this role, he began teaching classes for Mestre João Pequeno, despite working a full-time job at a supermarket. His dedication to capoeira was evident, as he balanced his job with teaching classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
By 1989, Jogo de Dentro made the significant decision to leave his job to dedicate himself fully to Capoeira Angola. He continued working closely with Mestre João Pequeno, helping to organize and maintain the academy. However, his efforts to introduce new organizational methods met with resistance from some students, leading to conflicts. Despite these challenges, Jogo de Dentro persevered, committed to preserving the work and teachings of his master.
Rise to Contra-Mestre and Leadership
In 1990, during an event held on September 23, Jogo de Dentro was awarded the rank of Contra-Mestre, a recognition of the progress and dedication he had shown in his capoeira practice and teaching. Later that year, when Mestre João Grande traveled to the United States, Jogo de Dentro took on the responsibility of continuing the work that Mestre João Grande had initiated at the Miguel Santana Theater in Pelourinho, Salvador.
This period was particularly challenging for Jogo de Dentro, as he faced difficulties with students who were accustomed to the teaching style of Mestre João Grande. Nevertheless, he remained undeterred, continuing the work with the same dedication and philosophy instilled in him by Mestre João Pequeno.
Founding of Semente do Jogo de Angola
As the academy evolved, so did its identity. Initially named "Herança de Pastinha" (Heritage of Pastinha), the group later became known as "Filhos de João Pequeno and João Grande" (Children of João Pequeno and João Grande), reflecting the lineage and influence of these two great masters. However, internal conflicts and disagreements led to another name change, resulting in the group being renamed "Semente do Jogo de Angola" (Seed of the Game of Angola). This name symbolizes the continuation and growth of Capoeira Angola, rooted in the teachings of Mestre João Pequeno and João Grande, but also embodying the unique contributions of Jogo de Dentro.
Under the leadership of Mestre Jogo de Dentro, Semente do Jogo de Angola grew and spread its influence globally, attracting students and practitioners who shared a deep commitment to the philosophy and traditions of Capoeira Angola.
Philosophy and Legacy
Mestre Jogo de Dentro's philosophy centers on humility, dedication, and the preservation of Capoeira Angola as a cultural and spiritual practice, rather than merely a competitive sport. He emphasizes the importance of rescuing and maintaining the roots of capoeira, urging his students to stay true to the art's origins and values.
He often reminds his students, "Be humble, have Capoeira Angola as your purpose in life, rescue our roots and don't let it be transformed into a competitive struggle. Let's hold this job. Well, I will keep it until the end of my life, the philosophy of Capoeira Angola."
On February 27, 1994, Jogo de Dentro was officially recognized as a mestre of Capoeira Angola by Mestre João Pequeno, marking the culmination of his years of dedication and commitment to the art. Today, he continues to teach and inspire new generations of capoeiristas, ensuring that the traditions and philosophy of Capoeira Angola live on.
References
- Grupo Pindorama. (n.d.). Mestre Jogo de Dentro.
- Lalaue. (n.d.). Mestre Jogo De Dentro.