Anitta has lost over 200,000 followers after sharing black-and-white images practicing a Santería ritual that are part of the music video for her new song "Aceita." Alongside these striking images, she shared a fragment of a speech from the Brazilian samba school Unidos da Tijuca for the 2025 Carnival, dedicated to the Orisha. "Yoruba. Orisha. I am Longun Edé, the great crown prince of the race of my parents! I have the sensitivity and intelligence of my mother and the bravery and cunning of my father. As a hunter and fisherman, I am my own nature. I am the only one capable of uniting all worlds. I am the balance between men and women," reads part of the text.
In response to these images from the performer of "Envolver," many of her fans unfollowed her on Instagram. Reacting to this mass exodus, the popular singer stated, "I lost 100,000 followers after announcing the clip where I show my religion," clarifying that she practices Santería. However, the singer ultimately lost more than double that amount within a few hours after the music video premiered. Facing criticism and reaction from many, she defended her religion. "I have spoken about my religion countless times, but it seems that leaving a piece of art forever in my catalog was too much for those who do not ACCEPT that someone else thinks differently. [...] When I receive messages of rejection and religious intolerance, I do not feel divine energy pouring towards me; I feel the opposite energy. I have faith, I'm not afraid," said Anitta.
"I do not wish to punish or judge any of the people attacking me right now for exposing my religion. I hope they follow the path of evolution," she added in the comments.
In another post on Instagram addressing the flood of criticism, the Brazilian star said, "I believe in God, Jesus, Orishas, and others. And in my life, I practice their teachings much more than the people who humiliate others on social media."
The Yoruba religion is one of the main religions practiced in Cuba, a series of spiritual beliefs that have spread across several Latin American countries, including Brazil.
Understanding Anitta's Santería Practices
In light of the recent controversy surrounding Anitta's practice of Santería, here are some frequently asked questions and answers about her faith and the public's reaction.
What is Santería?
Santería is a religion of Caribbean origin that combines West African Yoruba beliefs with elements of Roman Catholicism. It is practiced in various countries, including Cuba and Brazil.
Why did Anitta lose so many followers?
Anitta lost over 200,000 followers after she shared images of herself practicing a Santería ritual, which are part of her new music video. Some fans reacted negatively to her open display of her religious beliefs.
How did Anitta respond to the criticism?
Anitta defended her practice of Santería, stating that she has faith and is not afraid. She expressed that she does not wish to judge or punish those who attack her and hopes they will follow a path of evolution.