Lalon Sandhya 2026’ Held at Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre in Dhaka

Lalon Shah’s Humanist Philosophy Serves as a Bridge of Friendship Between Bangladesh and India: Indian High Commissioner

Dhaka, October 31, 2026: A cultural programme titled ‘Lalon Sandhya 2026’ was held in Dhaka on Saturday (October 31), commemorating the life, philosophy and musical legacy of Fakir Lalon Shah, the legendary Baul mystic, philosopher and iconic figure of Bengali folk music. The event was organised by the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) of the High Commission of India in Dhaka at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Abdul Gani Road.

Featuring traditional Baul songs, enchanting flute melodies, group performances of Lalon songs and contemporary musical arrangements, the programme received an enthusiastic response from the audience. The auditorium was filled with more than 700 guests, reflecting the enduring popularity of Lalon Shah’s music and philosophy, as well as the shared cultural heritage of Bangladesh and India.

Addressing the gathering, His Excellency Dinesh Trivedi, High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh, described Fakir Lalon Shah as a guiding light of humanity. He observed that just as a lighthouse guides ships that lose their way at sea, Lalon Shah’s philosophy provides direction to human society. His universal humanist ideals and secular outlook, he said, also serve as a bridge of friendship between Bangladesh and India.

The High Commissioner further emphasised that Lalon Shah’s songs and philosophy, with their messages of humanity, equality and transcendence of social and religious divisions, remain equally relevant today. Highlighting the importance of Baul music in preserving the shared cultural heritage of Bengal, he underscored the role of cultural exchanges in strengthening people-to-people ties between the two countries.

The programme began with a traditional Baul music performance by a group led by renowned Bangladeshi Baul and folk singer Shafi Mondol. Through their soulful renditions, the performers brought to life the rich Baul traditions of rural Bengal and the spiritual essence of Fakir Lalon Shah’s philosophy.

The audience was subsequently captivated by flute performances by Gazi Abdul Hakim, husband of the late legendary Lalon singer Farida Parveen. He was joined by renowned folk and traditional music artist Nasrin Akhtar Beauty. Their presentation, blending classical raga music with the melodies of Bengali folk traditions, added a distinctive dimension to the programme.

In the next segment, students of Achin Pakhi Cultural Academy performed Lalon songs in chorus. Their collective rendition of Lalon Shah’s timeless compositions created an emotional atmosphere throughout the auditorium, highlighting the continuing relevance and cultural significance of his music in contemporary society.

The final segment featured the internationally recognised musical group ‘Band Lalon’. Led by Nigar Sultana Sumi, the band mesmerised the audience by combining the traditional melodies of Lalon songs with modern musical arrangements. Their performance introduced a fresh interpretation of Lalon music and its philosophical depth to younger generations. With their vibrant presentation and distinctive musical style, the band brought the evening to a memorable close.

The programme was attended by Ahmed Sohel Manzur, MP, State Minister for Housing and Public Works, as the special guest. Members of Parliament, senior government officials, distinguished artists from the music and cultural sectors, former ambassadors, business representatives, students, teachers, young cultural activists, academics, and representatives of research institutions and think tanks were also present.

Editors, journalists and other distinguished personalities from various media organisations attended the event. The enthusiastic participation of former scholarship recipients of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) further enriched the occasion.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to promoting Lalon Shah’s humanist philosophy, secular ideals and musical heritage among younger generations, while further strengthening the cultural bonds between Bangladesh and India through shared artistic and cultural traditions.