Kabir-Lalon spiritual music festival held in Barishal
A Kabir-Lalon spiritual music festival was held at the auditorium of the Barishal District Shilpakala Academy today (Friday), featuring musical performances and discussions centred on the philosophies of saint Kabir and Fakir Lalon Shah.
Titled after a verse by Lalon — “Bhakta Kabir jate jola prem-bhaktite matoyala, dhorechhe se Brajer Kala diye sarbaswa dhan tai” — the festival was organised by Lalon Bishwa Sangha with support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
Professor Dr Md Mamun Ar Rashid, vice-chancellor of the University of Barishal, inaugurated the festival at around 6:30pm. Barishal City Corporation Administrator Advocate Bilkis Jahan Shirin attended the event as the chief guest, while noted cultural personality Professor Faizun Nahar Shelly was present as a special guest.
Speakers at the festival discussed various aspects of the philosophies and teachings of Kabir and Lalon.
They said Lalon's philosophy has evolved into a global philosophy, with his songs and teachings inspiring people to rise above social and religious divisions and recognise their shared humanity. They also highlighted how the life philosophy of Saint Kabir continues to enlighten people.
Abdel Mannan, chief executive of Lalon Bishwa Sangha and a researcher of Kabir-Lalon philosophy, chaired the programme.
In the second session, artists from the Kabir-Lalon Musical Mission of Dhaka performed 20 songs — 10 by Kabir and 10 by Lalon — for the audience.
The next leg of the festival will be held at the Khulna District Shilpakala Academy at 5:30pm on Saturday. Professor Dr Md Rezaul Karim, vice-chancellor of Khulna University, is scheduled to inaugurate the event.
The festival began at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on September 11 and will conclude on October 30 in Sreemangal, Sylhet. It is being held across all eight divisional cities — Dhaka, Chattogram, Barishal, Khulna, Rajshahi, Sylhet, Mymensingh and Rangpur.

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