Dhaka, April 11 -- Amid controversy and heated discussion, the Dhaka University organised Bengali New Year procession has been renamed from "Mongol Shobhajatra" to "Barshabaran Ananda Shobhajatra".

Dhaka University Faculty of Fine Arts Dean Azharul Islam Sheikh announced the decision at 11am on Friday, stating: "This year's procession will be a joyful one that includes everyone."

Organisers say members of 28 different ethnic communities will take part in this year's event.

Cultural Affairs Advisor Mostofa Sarwar Farooki had hinted at the name change at a press conference on Mar 23.

The suggestion drew criticism. The following day, the advisor said at a meeting regarding Bengali New Year 1432 celebrations that no decision had been take...