Fisheries and livestock adviser Farida Akhter has said that the message of humanity in the songs of Fakir Lalon Shah remains relevant in today鈥檚 world.
She described the song of Lalon as a rich tapestry of philosophical insight, social critique and above all, universal human values.
The adviser made the remarks during a national-level event, commemorating the 135th anniversary of death of legendary mystic bard Fakir Lalon Shah, at the Lalon Academy at Cheuriya under Kumarkhali in Kushtia on Saturday.
The event, organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, marked the first official nationwide observance of Lalon鈥檚 passing鈥攁 move that Farida Akhter called 鈥榟istoric鈥�.
In a statement released by the department of information on Saturday, she emphasised that Lalon transcended political and religious boundaries. 鈥楲alon does not represent any political ideology. He is a symbol of humanity.鈥�
The government recognises that his philosophy and contributions are not confined within national borders鈥攁nd future governments will continue to uphold his legacy, she said.
Despite Lalon鈥檚 immense influence in Bengali culture and spiritual thought, Farida noted that his global recognition remained limited compared to other mystic figures.
鈥楳any mystic bards are celebrated worldwide, but Lalon is still not widely known internationally. His philosophy, songs and ideas deserve global attention,鈥� she mentioned, adding, 鈥榃e want his name, music and wisdom to reach every corner of the world.鈥�
Stressing that the event is more than a memorial, she said, 鈥業t is a significant step by the state to formally honour one of Bangladesh鈥檚 most enduring cultural icons.鈥�
鈥楾his is not just remembrance; it is a commitment to spreading Lalon鈥檚 vision across Bangladesh and beyond,鈥� she said.
A video message from cultural affairs adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki lauded Lalon as one of the nation鈥檚 greatest philosophers and thinkers.
He urged people to internalise the bard鈥檚 life, values and ideals in their daily lives.
Kushtia district commissioner Abu Hasnat Mohammad Arefin chaired the programme.
