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The Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has decided against seeking financial contributions from banks and mobile financial service (MFS) providers for its upcoming "Hridoye Dhaka" festival, reversing a controversial sponsorship initiative. The city corporation faced criticism after requesting financial support from these institutions.

DSCC Administrator Md Abdus Salam stated that the corporation has withdrawn its request amid the ensuing discussion. "If any bank or financial institution wishes to support us of their own volition, we will gladly accept it," he said, indicating openness to voluntary contributions. The initial request, sent on July 13, asked commercial banks and MFS providers to contribute between Tk 50 lakh and Tk 3 crore each as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs.

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We had written to financial institutions seeking support to make the festival bigger and more successful. But since the matter has generated considerable discussion, we have withdrawn from that position.

The proposal generated significant objections from several bank managing directors, who questioned the nature of the funding request. In response to the backlash, the DSCC opted to halt its pursuit of financial support from these entities. The "Hridoye Dhaka" festival is scheduled to run from July 31 to August 7 to commemorate the 416th anniversary of Dhaka and Dhaka Day on August 1.

According to DSCC, the festival's objective is to celebrate the capital's rich history, heritage, and culture. It also aims to promote environmental awareness and enhance Dhaka's image as a global city under the theme "Hridoye Dhaka" (Dhaka in the Heart).

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If any bank or financial institution wishes to support us of their own volition, we will gladly accept it.