Mandinga em Manhattan is both a continuation and an in-depth exploration of the documentary of the same name, which investigated the global spread of the most internationally recognized Afro-Brazilian art formtoday—Capoeira. Alongside Candomblé and Samba, Capoeira is one of the most significant manifestations of Brazilian culture. It is currently undergoing rapid global expansion, practiced in all states of Brazil and on every continent. This growth, achieved without any government support, led UNESCO to recognize the "Roda de Capoeira" (Capoeira circle) as a World Heritage cultural expression.

Introduced by African slaves who arrived in Bahia to work in the sugarcane industry, Capoeira played a key role in the cultural resistance of Afro-Brazilians. Its practitioners were central figures in pivotal moments of Brazilian history, including the Paraguayan War, the Abolitionist movement, and the transition from Empire to Republic. After the abolition of slavery, Capoeiristas faced persecution and discrimination, with their art of combat initially criminalized by law. Despite this, Capoeira, like Candomblé, survived and recontextualized itself. Today, it stands as a cornerstone of Brazilian culture.

Although historians offer varying theories about Capoeira's origin, all agree that the cultural manifestations brought from Africa thrived in the sugarcane fields of the Recôncavo Baiano, eventually giving rise to a genuinely Brazilian art form. Capoeira has since become a lifestyle practiced by young people around the world. Capoeiristas from diverse cultures travel to Brazil seeking wisdom from the old masters and to immerse themselves in the art’s roots, striving to preserve its original philosophy.

Mandinga em Manhattan is an in-depth exploration of the documentary with the same title, a project selected nationally by the DOCTV program from the Brazilian Ministry of Culture (MinC). The project focuses on the internationalization of Capoeira. Written and created by journalist, photographer, and Capoeirista Lucia Correia Lima, the work reflects her vast experience in Brazilian media, including her early career at the São Paulo-based Revista REALIDADE. Lucia's initiation into Capoeira began at the Cordão de Ouro group, which now has schools in over 60 countries.

The title of the book pays homage to Mestre João Grande, the most important master of traditional Capoeira Angola, who has lived in Manhattan since 1990. Mestre João Grande, who has been honored at the White House, was selected for the prestigious National Treasure award by the National Endowment for the Arts—thehighest recognition for cultural producers in the United States.

Lucia’s long-form work includes 21 interviews with pioneering masters who have spread Capoeira worldwide. Among those interviewed are scholars such as Dr. Ubiratan Castro, former head of the Fundação Palmares