Three-day Lalon folk festival begins in Kushtia

A three-day Lalon festival has begun at Chheuriya Akhrabari in Kumarkhali, Kushtia, marking the 134th death anniversary of the subcontinent’s Baul king, Fakir Lalon Shah.

The festival is celebrated under the spiritual slogan "Serve humanity, become a golden human," a message famously preached by Lalon.

The festival was set to be officially inaugurated on Thursday evening by Farida Akhtar, the interim government adviser on fisheries and livestock.

Lalon followers from across the country have already started gathering at Lalon’s shrine, with Akhrabari coming alive with the music of Baul singers. The grounds are filled with small gatherings of Lalon’s followers, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

The main rituals will begin on Thursday night at the Lalon Academy, with the evening ceremony led by the gurus, followed by an all-night worship session.

One of the key attractions of the festival is a rural fair set up near the open stage by the Kali River. Vendors from various regions have gathered to sell their goods, and rides have been arranged for people of all ages.

To ensure the safety of the event, the local administration has implemented extensive security measures. Along with police and RAB, army and BGB personnel will be deployed, supported by members of the navy and Ansar.