A Bengali violinist says his life has been “destroyed” after his name was replaced by an offensive term in an official festival programme.

Abdul Shahid, who has performed around the world, said he has been subjected to “immense ridicule” after his first name was written as “bal” — “pubic hair” in Bengali.

More than 85,000 copies of the programme were circulated by Tower Hamlets council for the annual Baishakhi Mela Festival last year, which drew 120,000 people to Brick Lane.

Mr Shahid is now suing Tower Hamlets for more than £300,000 for damages. The 43-year-old father-of-four claims he has been subject to “immense ridicule, taunting and humiliation” which rendered him unable to work.