Happy Birthday, Mestre João Grande!!!
Today, January 15th, 2026, marks the birthday of a true global icon in the world of martial arts and culture: João Oliveira dos Santos, universally revered and affectionately known as Mestre João Grande.
Born on January 15, 1933, Mestre João Grande is one of the world’s most distinguished and respected Grão-Mestres (Grand Masters) of Capoeira Angola. As he celebrates his 93rd year, he remains an absolutely critical and profound living link to the fundamental, traditional roots of this beautiful, powerful, and historic Afro-Brazilian art form.
Mestre João Grande’s life is a testament to the enduring spirit and rich heritage of Capoeira Angola. His journey began in Bahia, Brazil, the heartland of Capoeira, where he trained under the legendary Mestre Pastinha, often referred to as the “father of modern Capoeira Angola.” Mestre Pastinha instilled in him the deep philosophical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of the art—elements that Mestre João Grande has tirelessly championed throughout his career.
Unlike the faster, more acrobatic style known as Capoeira Regional, Mestre João Grande preserves the slower, strategic, and ritualistic elegance of Capoeira Angola. His movements, though seemingly subtle, are filled with deceptive power, deep respect for tradition, and a profound connection to the art’s African origins. He is recognized worldwide not just for his skill in the roda (the Capoeira circle), but for his role as a preserver and global disseminator of Capoeira Angola’s cultural integrity.
His establishment of the Foundation for Capoeira Angola in New York City in the 1990s marked a pivotal moment in the recognition and appreciation of this traditional art, bringing it to a major international stage and ensuring its continuity for generations of non-Brazilian practitioners eager to learn its rich history and intricate movements.
Through his dedicated teaching, captivating performances, and humble demeanor, Mestre João Grande has touched thousands of lives, fostering an inclusive community that transcends cultural barriers, promoting not just a martial art, but a profound philosophy of life rooted in community, respect, cultural pride, and the spirit of collaboration that defines capoeira. His efforts have inspired numerous students to embrace this vibrant form of expression, creating a legacy that celebrates both the traditions of Brazil and the diverse tapestry of cultures represented in the capoeira community worldwide.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 