Bangladesh Renames Celebration, Removes Word With Hindu Roots

DHAKA (ANI)- Bangladesh has renamed the traditional Bengali New Year procession recognized by UNESCO, in response to pressure from Islamic political and religious groups claiming it reflected Hindu cultural elements.

The annual procession, formerly known as “Mangal Shobhajatra”, will now be called “Barshavaran Ananda Shobhajatra.”

Originally introduced in 1989 by Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, the procession was recognised as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2016, celebrating Bangladesh’s secular identity.

However, religious organizations, including Hefazat-e-Islam, criticized the use of the word “Mangal”, citing its association with Hindu rituals and demanding more culturally “inclusive” symbolism.

The interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, defended the decision as part of its “New Bangladesh” vision promoting cultural healing and inclusiveness.

Leaders from Hefazat-e-Islam, including Ameer Allama Muhibullah Babunagari and Secretary General Allama Sajedur Rahman, welcomed the move, alleging that Hindu elements had previously been imposed under the guise of universality.