Different organizations came together to commemorate the life and work of the mystic bard Fakir Lalon Shah, marking his 133rd death anniversary observed on October 17. The celebrations included a variety of events aimed at honoring his contributions to music and spirituality.
The Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy hosted a three-day Lalon Utsab in Dhaka and Kushtia. On the opening day, numerous artists entertained attendees by performing Lalon's songs at Sadhumela, situated at the academy's premises in Dhaka. The festivities continued with music shows at Lalon Akhra in Kushtia on October 19 and at Zila Shilpakala Academy, Kushtia, on October 20.
Additionally, the Lalon Academy and the Kushtia district administration, in collaboration with the cultural affairs ministry, organized a three-day Lalon fair at Lalon Akhra in Chheuriya, Kushtia. This fair featured performances by artists from Lalon Academy and bauls from both Bangladesh and abroad, alongside daily discussions centered on Lalon's life and philosophy.
The event was inaugurated on October 17 by Mahbubul Alam Hanif, joint general secretary of the ruling Awami League and lawmaker for the Kushtia-3 constituency. Following the opening ceremony, a discussion on Lalon's contributions was held, with notable attendees including local lawmakers, police officials, and cultural leaders. Professor M Shahinoor Rahman from the English department of Islamic University, Kushtia, served as the chief discussant, while the program was chaired by Kushtia district commissioner M Ehtasham Reza.
In addition to musical performances, the Lalon Fair features over one thousand stalls showcasing traditional attire, sweets, pottery, and toys, attracting devotees and visitors from across the country and abroad. Mohammad Ali, caretaker of Lalon Akhra, stated that the three-day event will conclude on October 19.
Lalon Shah, who passed away on the first day of the Bangla month of Kartik in 1297, is celebrated for his songs that blend mystical themes with humanism.
Despite leaving no written records of his work, Lalon's compositions were passed down orally and later transcribed by his followers. While experts estimate that Lalon composed fewer than two thousand songs, many rural bauls believe the true number exceeds 10,000. This commemoration serves as a reminder of Lalon Shah's enduring legacy and the impact of his songs on Bangladeshi culture and spirituality.
