Lalon researchers said that Fakir Lalon Shai preached his philosophy for the people鈥檚 spiritual and social liberation in the 19th century and his philosophy was still relevant in the 21st century.
They made the remark on Wednesday at a programme organised by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy as part of its ongoing commemorative event titled 鈥楽mriti Satta Bhabishyat 2024鈥� at its National Music and Dance Centre in the capital.
Lalon Research and Cultural Foundation president Abu Ishaq Hossain read the keynote essay titled 鈥楻elevance of Lalon Fakir in the 21st Century鈥� at the programme.
He said, 鈥楲alon preached his philosophy for spiritual and social liberation in the 19th century. A century and a half has already passed and various changes have taken place in social structure and social life.鈥�
While talking about the relevance of Lalon in the 21st century, the researcher pointed out some contemporary crises, including alienation, religious crisis, humanitarian crisis and others.
Referring to different songs of Lalon, Abu Ishaq Hossain said that Lalon addressed the issues through his songs and the issues could be abolished if people could gain insights into the underlying meanings of his songs.
People have become alienated in the 21st century and they must embrace Lalon to become enlightened, said Abu Ishaq Hossain.
He added that people only talked about secularism but they were practicing religious dogmatism.
Lalon鈥檚 philosophy teaches people to become tolerant, mentioned Abu Ishaq Hossain.
Cultural affairs ministry joint secretary Mukhlesur Rahman Akand was present as discussant at the programme, which was presided over by Global University Bangladesh vice-chancellor Anisuzzaman.
Anisuzzaman said that Lalon and his songs could enlighten people.
It is important to realise the meanings of the songs and learn from them, said Anisuzzaman.
Smriti Satta Bhabishyat 2024, organised in collaboration with cultural affairs ministry, is featuring seminars, documentary films and discussions on 62 renowned individuals.
The event will end on June 12.
