Mangal Shobhajatra to march on: A bigger, inclusive Pahela Baishakh celebration

The iconic New Year procession will retain its name—‘Mangal Shobhajatra’—laying to rest speculations about a potential rebranding. 

This decision was finalised at a meeting of key organisers of the Pahela Baishakh celebrations held on Monday at Dhaka University (DU). The consensus? This year’s festivities will be louder, prouder, and more inclusive than ever before, embracing Bangladesh’s rich cultural diversity under the theme “Unity of the New Year, End of Fascism.”  

Presiding over the meeting was DU Vice-Chancellor Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan, joined by Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki. The discussions crackled with intent, focusing on how to usher in Bengali New Year 1432 with peace, flair, and an expanded embrace that reflects the nation’s multicultural fabric.  

In a press release following the meeting, details emerged: a central coordination committee, led by Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr Saima Haque Bidisha, will oversee the celebrations, supported by sub-committees to ensure seamless execution. The Mangal Shobhajatra will begin its journey from the Faculty of Fine Arts at 9:00 am, weaving through key landmarks like Shishu Park and Shahbagh before culminating at the Student-Teacher Center (TSC).  

This year’s procession promises to be bigger and more vibrant, infused with the spirit of folk traditions and ethnic diversity. Chakma, Marma, Santal, Garo, and other indigenous communities will play a prominent role, symbolising unity in diversity.  

Ahead of the meeting, rumours swirled after Farooki hinted at a possible name change during a Sunday press conference. “Names evolve if we agree,” he had mused, referencing its earlier moniker, Ananda Shobhajatra. Social media buzzed with speculation, but Monday’s meeting firmly rejected any alteration.  

DU Registrar Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed was unequivocal: “No name change, no schedule tweak—just a push for inclusivity.” The Mangal Shobhajatra remains intact, evolving into a platform that transcends linguistic or ethnic boundaries, welcoming all who call Bangladesh home.  

The meeting brought together a constellation of university brass, including Pro-Vice Chancellors Dr Mamun Ahmed and Dr M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed, deans, department chairs, and directors. Beyond the walls of DU, virtual voices chimed in—representatives from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, law enforcement agencies, political parties, and cultural organizations—all united in their commitment to making this year’s celebration historic.  

This is no longer just DU’s tradition; it has grown into a national movement. Echoing the Ministry’s guidance, the organisers are determined to preserve the procession’s soul while amplifying its reach and resonance.  

What began as a Faculty of Fine Arts ritual has transformed into a multi-ethnic anthem against fascism. Pahela Baishakh is no longer just a date on the calendar—it is a stride toward unity, a defiant stand against tyranny, and a celebration of collective identity.  

Will the streets of Dhaka rise to match this grand vision? As the city prepares to welcome the procession, anticipation builds. One thing is certain: the Mangal Shobhajatra is not shedding its skin—it is stretching it, ready to carry the hopes and dreams of a nation forward.