Olodum received the Ordem do Mérito Cultural 2012 from President Dilma this Monday, the 5th!

The group Olodum received this Monday, November 5, from President Dilma Rousseff, the Ordem do Mérito Cultural 2012. Known worldwide for the sound of its drums and for the social work it develops in the Pelourinho neighborhood, in Salvador, where the group emerged, the carnival association is led by singers Nadjane Souza, Mateus Vidal and Lazinho and is a highlight in Bahia.

The 18th edition of the ceremony had 41 awardees among intellectuals and institutions and took place at Palácio do Planalto, in Brasília. This year's honoree was Luiz Gonzaga, a reference to the celebration of the centenary of birth of the "Rei do Baião" and to his importance for Brazilian culture. The winners had their names suggested by members of society, through the internet, and analyzed by the Council of the Ordem do Mérito – formed by various sectors of the government. The full list of winners is on the Ministry of Culture website.