New name for Mangal Shovajatra? Cultural Advisor Farooki hints at change

A possible name change for the famous Mangal Shovajatra has been suggested by Cultural Affairs Advisor Mostofa Sarwar Farooki. 

Speaking to reporters after a meeting at the Ministry of Cultural Affairs on Sunday, March 23, Farooki stated that a final decision on this matter will be made soon. 

He shared, “When this (Mangal Shovajatra) started, it was called Ananda Shovajatra. The name has changed before, and it might happen again. Tomorrow’s meeting will finalize the decision, and it will be a procession for everyone this time, not just for Bengalis.”

Earlier, the interim government announced its intention to host an inclusive New Year’s procession, featuring people from various indigenous communities such as Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Garo, and others, alongside the Bengalis. 

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs met to discuss preparations for this inclusive event.

Mangal Shovajatra has become a vital part of the Bengali New Year celebrations. It was first introduced in 1989, during the resistance against the regime of Ershad, calling for unity and the defeat of oppression.

Initially, it was known as Ananda Shovajatra. In 1996, the name was changed to Mangal Shovajatra. 

The colorful and symbolic procession, led by students of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University, has grown into a tradition that marks the beginning of every Bengali New Year.

In 2016, UNESCO added Mangal Shovajatra to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its cultural significance. 

Farooki assured that even if the name changes, it won’t affect this recognition. “UNESCO gave the recognition to the procession itself, so changing the name will not cause any issues,” he clarified.

The advisor also hinted at significant changes for this year’s event, saying,

“This year’s procession will feel different. There will be new colors, sounds, and experiences. You’ll notice a transformation.” 

The cultural advisor added that there will be no restrictions on how long Pohela Boishakh celebrations can continue, although the police will later announce a final time limit for the event.

In addition to the procession, the Ministry has announced several other cultural events to mark the Bengali New Year. 

On Chaitra Sangkranti, the last day of the Bengali year, a rock concert will be held at Shilpakala Academy. 

A special cultural program and a drone show will also take place on April 14 in front of the Parliament House, with assistance from the Chinese Embassy.

The potential name change has sparked discussion among enthusiasts, but one thing is clear—this year’s Mangal Shovajatra, or whatever it might be called, promises to be a unique and inclusive celebration.