The iconic ‘Mongol Shobhajatra’ of Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts will now be known as ‘Barshoboron Ananda Shobhajatra’, marking a significant shift in the celebration of Bangla New Year.
In a press conference held on Friday (April 10), the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, Professor Dr. Md. Azharul Islam Sheikh, officially announced the new name of the traditional procession. The event took place at the Osman Jamal Auditorium of the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Dhaka.
From the beginning of the New Year preparations, several political and non-political groups and individuals had been calling for a change in the name. Culture Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki was often questioned by journalists about this issue. He had earlier stated that the final decision would rest with the University of Dhaka, the main organizer of the procession.
Now, with this announcement, the name ‘Mangal Shobhajatra’, associated with festivity and symbolism for decades, has officially been changed to ‘Barshoboron Ananda Shobhajatra’.
The Faculty of Fine Arts has traditionally organized this colorful and festive rally to celebrate Pahela Baishakh, which holds great significance in Bangladesh’s cultural landscape. As in previous years, the faculty is taking the lead in organizing the grand procession to welcome Bangla New Year 1432.
Liberty News’ campus correspondent states that, present at the press conference were Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan; Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) and Central Coordination Committee Convener Professor Dr. Sayma Haque Bidisha; Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed; Treasurer Professor M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury; and other members of the Central Coordination and Subcommittees.
LND/BG
