Ponto de Pombagira - Maria Padilha da Calunga

The song "Ponto de Pombagira - Maria Padilha da Calunga" by Umbanda is a vibrant homage to Maria Padilha, a prominent figure in Afro-Brazilian spiritual traditions, particularly in Umbanda and Candomblé. The lyrics celebrate her as a powerful and enigmatic sorceress, emphasizing her mystical abilities and the seriousness of her magic. Maria Padilha is often associated with love, desire, and the ability to influence human emotions, making her a revered and sometimes feared entity within these spiritual practices.

The repetition of "feiticeira" (sorceress) and the phrase "O seu feitiço não é de brincadeira" (Her spell is not a joke) underscores the respect and awe that Maria Padilha commands. This repetition serves to reinforce her formidable presence and the potency of her magic. The song's rhythmic and repetitive structure, with the "quá, quá, quá" refrain, adds a hypnotic quality, drawing listeners into the mystical world of Maria Padilha. This chant-like element is typical in Umbanda music, which often uses repetitive phrases to invoke spiritual entities and create a trance-like state.

Maria Padilha's association with "calunga" refers to her connection with the spiritual world, particularly the realm of the dead. In Afro-Brazilian traditions, "calunga" can denote the sea or the cemetery, both seen as gateways to the spiritual realm. The song highlights her tireless work in this domain, suggesting her role as a mediator between the living and the spiritual world. This portrayal of Maria Padilha reflects the syncretic nature of Umbanda, blending African, Indigenous, and Catholic elements to create a unique spiritual tapestry.