The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh on Thursday organised a musical evening titled ‘Lalon Sandhya’ to commemorate the 135th death anniversary of Fakir Lalon Shah, the mystic poet and philosopher.
The event, held at the Liberation War Museum auditorium, also paid tribute to eminent singer Farida Parveen, widely regarded as the foremost proponent of Lalon songs, said a press release.
In his inaugural speech, Indian high commissioner Pranay Verma highlighted the enduring spiritual and cultural bond between India and Bangladesh as reflected in the life and music of Fakir Lalon.
Paying tribute to Farida Parveen, the high commissioner said her music had bridged generations and nations, serving as a cultural link between India and Bangladesh through her performances at numerous festivals in both countries.
He added that the event was not only about remembrance but also about celebrating the shared cultural heritage of the two neighbours.
The programme featured the screening of Farida Parveen’s Lalon songs translated into Hindi by former Indian high commissioner Muchkund Dubey, a flute performance by Farida’s husband and Ekushey Padak-winning musician Gazi Abdul Hakim, melodic recitals by her disciple Beauty, and choral renditions by students of her institution Ocin Pakhi Cultural Academy.
The cultural segment also included performances by Chandana Majumdar and Kiran Chandra Roy, while Tuntun Baul and his troupe from Kushtia presented traditional Baul music. Band Lalon, led by Sumi, also performed at the event.
Author and Lalon researcher Abdel Mannan delivered an insightful talk on Lalon’s philosophy, teachings, and their continued relevance in contemporary times.
Born in present-day Kushtia, Bangladesh, Fakir Lalon Shah passed away on October 17, 1890.
