Kushtia: The annual Lalon festival at Chheuriya Akhrabari in Kumarakhali upazila of Kushtia district, traditionally a three-day celebration during Dol Purnima, will be observed for just one day this year due to Ramadan. The festival, which usually attracts large crowds of devotees, Bauls, and spiritual leaders, will see a reduced program focused on discussion sessions and hospitality for Baul singers, according to Mashiur Rahman, the acting caretaker of Akhrabari. The event is supported by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the district administration.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Lalon festival typically fills the Akhrabari premises with songs and a rural fair, creating a festive atmosphere. However, this year there will be no cultural programs or fair, with the observance concluding at noon on Tuesday. Despite the scaled-back schedule, Baul singers and Lalon devotees have already begun gathering at Akhrabari, engaging in spiritual exchanges and singing Lalon’s songs.
Fakir Fahim, a visitor from Dhaka, expressed anticipation for the festival, noting its significance in bringing together spiritual leaders from across the world. Mizanur Rahman, an expatriate from the United States, shared his long-standing admiration for Lalon’s songs and the opportunity to experience their essence firsthand. Sadhu Tofazzel Hossain, who arrived early, emphasized the festival’s focus on love and compassion, acknowledging the impact of Ramadan on this year’s event.
Shanto Fakir highlighted the spiritual and intellectual nourishment the festival provides, coinciding with a sacred day during Dol Purnima. Mashiur Rahman detailed the schedule, which includes Gurukarya, Rakhial service, midnight Adhibash, Balya service, and concludes with Purna service at noon. Despite expectations of lower public turnout, security measures, including CCTV cameras and deployment of police, Ansar personnel, and volunteer teams, are in place, as confirmed by Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farzana Akhtar.