Fakir Lalon Shah’s 129th death anniversary commemorated with ‘Shadhumela’

Fakir Lalon Shah is the most prominent figure in the country’s Baul tradition. His folk songs are practiced all over the world. The legendary Bard has secured an exceptional position in the history of traditional music for his humanitarian songs, blending philosophies of different devotional and spiritual traditions. Lalon was born in Kushtia, in 1774.

On the occasion of Fakhir Lalon Shah’s 129th death anniversary, Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) organised the seventh edition of Shadhumela, on October 15. The idea was conceptualised by Liaquat Ali Lucky, Director General of BSA. In association with popular Baul artistes, distinguished Lalon researchers, practitioners, educators, and cultural personalities, BSA took the initiative, where various activities are being conducted on a national level.

Fakir Lalon Shah composed about two thousand songs, according to experts. However, many rural Bauls claim that the number should be over 10,000.