Charukala prepares for Pohela Boishakh

Like every year, Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts begins preparations to welcome the Bengali New Year. The Mangal Shobhajatra for Pohela Boishakh will feature masks, colorful motifs, birds, fish, Bonbibi, and Gazi's pattachitra, created by teachers, current, and former students.

This year's Pohela Boishakh theme is "Unity and the End of Fascism." However, there seems to be a lack of enthusiasm among the students in the preparations, and the usual bustle is missing. Organizers mention that while students work late into the night for the procession, no students are seen in the morning.

The organizers have mentioned that work is ongoing to create several motifs for the shobhajatra, including depictions of autocratic rulers, the national fish hilsa, peace doves, and wooden tigers. Additionally, a water bottle will be made to pay tribute to Mir Mughdo. All efforts are being made to complete the work before Pohela Boishakh.

There has been ongoing debate about whether the name of the Mangal Shobhajatra will change this time. Regarding this, Azharul Islam Sheikh, the Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts at Dhaka University, told Views Bangladesh that discussions are ongoing about the name change. A decision will be made by the 11th April.

He said that this time, the Shobhajatra will start from the museum, pass through Charukala, TSC, and Rokeya Hall, and end at the Language Institute.

The Mongol Shobhajatra began in 1989. Later, UNESCO included it in the list of the world’s important intangible cultural heritage. Although the Shobhajatra has always been a universal celebration, the organizers hope for even more participation this year. They also expect this year's Shobhajatra to carry a message of peace.