22/11/2021
Religious place for Lalon followers
Lalon also known as Fakir Lalon Shah, Lalon Shah, Lalon Fakir or Mahatma Lalon. He was a prominent Bengali philosopher, Baul saint, mystic, songwriter, social reformer and thinker from the Indian subcontinent. Regarded as an icon of Bengali culture, he inspired and influenced many poets, social and religious thinkers including Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam, and Allen Ginsberg although he "rejected all distinctions of caste and creed".
Lalon was against religious conflict and many of his songs mock identity politics that divide communities and generate violence. In his songs, Lalon envisioned a society where all religions and beliefs would stay in harmony. He even rejected nationalism at the apex of the anti-colonial nationalist movements in the Indian subcontinent. He did not believe in classes or castes, the fragmented, hierarchical society, and took a stand against racism.
For his followers this is a holy place. His grave residing here along with his first level followers. In the month of october there is big festival in this mazar. There is no entree fees. Many Baul (Lalon followers) who stay in Mazar play Baul Song. Enjoying those song in that atmosphere is a different experiance.
Just opposit to the park there is a big field. Just beside the field there is a small river called Kali Gang. There are many small shop and stall are around the mazar.
Photo & Story : Dhrubo Ghosh
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