Discussion, devotion mark this year’s Lalon Festival in Kushtia

The annual commemoration festival of Baul King Fakir Lalon Shah, marking “Dole Purnima”, is being held this year at the Lalon Akhra in Kushtia’s Chheuria. Meanwhile, Chheuria has gradually turned into a gathering place for Baul devotees. The surroundings are resonating with the melodies of Lalon’s songs and philosophical conversations.
However, respecting the spiritual significance of the holy month of Ramadan, this year’s programme is being observed on a limited scale. The two-day event began on Monday and concludes today.
Although the festival is traditionally celebrated over three days in a grand manner, this year it does not include cultural performances or the rural fair. With support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the Kushtia District Administration, the programme has been confined to a discussion session and hospitality arrangements for Baul practitioners and devotees. However, the customary sadhusanga (spiritual congregation) continues in keeping with traditional practices. 
Mashiur Rahman, the acting caretaker (khadem) of Lalon Akhra, confirmed the matter.
Monday’s programme featured sadhusanga along with the guru-karya ritual, rakhal seva and midnight adhibas. Tuesday’s programme includes early morning balya seva and will conclude with purna seva at noon.
Shanto Fakir, a follower who arrived from Chuadanga, observed that Dole Purnima represents spiritual auspiciousness. “On this occasion, followers of Fakir Lalon traditionally bring together scholars and devotees. Continuing the lineage of the guru tradition, we come here in search of spiritual connection. Being here provides opportunities for learning, inner purification, and the development of both knowledge and mental serenity,” he said.
To ensure overall security, the administration has taken special measures.
Farzana Akhter, Upazila Nirbahi Officer, said CCTV cameras have been installed around the shrine premises. An adequate number of police and Ansar personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order. Additionally, village police, volunteer teams and a medical unit have been kept ready to assist visitors.