Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has indicated that the name of the New Year's Mangal Shobhajatra may be changed to better reflect inclusivity.
Speaking to reporters on Sunday after a meeting at the Secretariat regarding the national celebration of the Bengali New Year and the New Year festivities of the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Garo, and other ethnic groups, Farooki stated that discussions on the matter are ongoing.
A final decision on the name will be made at a meeting at Dhaka University on Monday, he added.
Farooki also shared that this year’s Mangal Shobhajatra will feature new elements, including different colours, scents, and melodies, making it a more diverse celebration.
"You will see new aspects in the Shobhajatra emerging from the Fine Arts. We won’t reveal everything just yet—it’s a teaser. Those who participate will witness the changes firsthand," he said.
He noted that the procession was originally called ‘Anando Shobhajatra’ before becoming ‘Mangal Shobhajatra.’ Since it has already undergone one name change, it could be changed again if there is a consensus. However, if everyone agrees to retain the current name, it may remain the same.
Farooki emphasized that the event is no longer solely for Bangalees but is intended to include all communities, such as the Chakma, Marma, and Garo people.
"We need to ensure that the name reflects this inclusivity, so it doesn’t feel exclusive to any one group. We want to avoid categorizing anyone," he said.
