Bauls congregate at Lalon's shrine

A three-day death anniversary programme in memory of mystic poet Lalon Shah ended with speakers calling for a 'Lalon University' to spread the bard's philosophy, especially its humanitarian aspect, worldwide.

“We want to build a secular Bangladesh where practice of Lalon's philosophy is given its due.”

Mahbubul Alam Hanif, Awami League lawmaker of Kushtia-3

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The programme, chalked out on the occasion of 126th death anniversary of the Baul legend, was held at the Chheuria Lalon Akhra in Kushtia from October 16-18.

Lalon Academy held the programme in association with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. Kushtia district administration supervised the event.

The programme included a 'Lalon Mela', discussion and rendition of songs by artistes of Lalon Academy and Bauls from across the country.

Joint general secretary of Awami League, also lawmaker of Kushtia-3 Mahbubul Alam Hanif, inaugurated the programme with Kushtia Deputy Commissioner Md Zahir Raihan Azad in the chair.

“We want to build a secular Bangladesh where practice of Lalon's philosophy is given its due,” Hanif told this correspondent.

Bauls and Lalon devotees in thousands flocked to Lalon's shrine on all three days.

With a large gathering at the main stage, seated in small groups, Bauls could be seen paying homage to Lalon at the bard's grave and singing the songs of their spiritual guru.

 “He (Lalon) is our philosopher and we are influenced by every stanza of his songs,” said Abdul Kuddus, a veteran Baul of Kushtia town who has been a follower of Lalon for 55 years.

The Bauls consider the akhra, Lalon's shrine as a sacred spot where they can free themselves of all sorrows and misery through Sadhan-Bhajan (spiritual songs). This homage takes the form of Lalon's songs.