The recent vote counting for the São Paulo carnival saw directors from samba schools incorporating superstitious amulets into their process. Items such as images of Jesus, religious guides, rosaries, and animal sculptures were displayed in an attempt to attract luck during what is known to be one of the most stressful times of the year for these organizations. The atmosphere at the Anhembi Sambadrome was charged with anticipation and a touch of faith, reflecting the deep cultural ties to superstition and ritual within the samba community.

As the scores were announced, the ambiance was overwhelmingly silent with only subtle reactions from the attendees, including sighs and anxious expressions directed at the overhead screens displaying the results. Each score was carefully calculated and presented, with the lowest score from each category automatically discarded before determining the final tallies. This meticulous process underscores the competitive nature of the samba schools, where every detail counts towards the ultimate goal of winning the coveted title.

The use of these amulets during the apuração signifies the blend of cultural tradition and the present-day pressure faced by samba schools. This ritualistic approach showcases not only the importance of fortune in the outcome of the competition but also emphasizes the community's dedication to their heritage, intertwining superstition with the artistic pursuit of samba performances and the carnival spirit.