This year's Pohela Boishakh celebrations will feature an inclusive Mongol Shobhajatra, ensuring the participation of diverse ethnic communities, including Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Manipuri, Santal, and Garo.
A meeting held on Monday (March 24) at Dhaka University's Senate Building finalized this decision. The slogan for this year's procession will be 'Harmony of the New Year, End of Fascism.'
No Changes to Name or Schedule
Presiding over the meeting was Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, with Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and various cultural figures in attendance.
Following the discussion, University Registrar Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed confirmed that there was no discussion on renaming the Mongol Shobhajatra, nor any changes to its schedule.
He emphasized that efforts are being made to make the event more inclusive, extending beyond Bengali traditions to embrace all communities. Additionally, he announced that the Bangladesh national women's football team would participate in this year's procession.
Prior Discussion on Renaming the Procession
On Sunday (March 23), after a meeting at the Secretariat, Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki hinted that the name of Mongol Shobhajatra might be changed and that a final decision would be made during the Monday (March 24) meeting at Dhaka University.
He suggested that this year's procession, organized by the Faculty of Fine Arts (Charukola), would feature new and distinctive elements.
"This year, you will see something truly different in the procession. The changes will be visible to everyone, but for now, we're keeping it a surprise. Consider this a teaser—those who participate will experience the transformation firsthand."
He further hinted at new visuals, colours, fragrances, and melodies in this year's celebration.
A More Inclusive Festivity
Farooki noted that the procession, originally known as "Ananda Shobhajatra" (Joyous Procession), was later renamed Mongol Shobhajatra. He suggested that if there was a collective agreement, the name could change again, but if there was no consensus, it would remain unchanged.
He also emphasized that this year's event is not just for Bengalis but for all ethnic communities, including Chakma, Marma, and Garo.
"We must ensure that the name reflects inclusivity and does not exclude any community. Everyone should feel equally represented."
UNESCO Recognition Unaffected
Addressing concerns about UNESCO's recognition of Mongol Shobhajatra, Farooki assured that a name change would not impact its status.
"UNESCO recognized the event itself, not just its name. Therefore, any name change will not affect its recognition."
