Describing Lalon Shah as a champion of anti-discrimination, Fisheries and Livestock Ministry Adviser Farida Akhter emphasized that the Bengali philosopher and Baul saint spoke out against all forms of discrimination 134 years ago.

Speaking as the chief guest at Lalon Akhra in Chheuriya, Kumarkhali, Kushtia district, on Thursday night, she commemorated the 134th death anniversary of Fakir Lalon Shah, a pivotal figure in the country's Baul tradition.

"The legacy of Lalon Shah is significant; he raised his voice against discrimination long before it became a widespread issue," she remarked.

Farida Akhter urged the Lalon Academy to prioritize the preservation and research of Lalon Shah's speeches, ensuring that future generations can truly understand his teachings and philosophy.

The Lalon festival was inaugurated in her presence, with Lalon Academy President and Acting Deputy Commissioner of Kushtia, Sharmin Akhtar, presiding over the event.

Organized by the Lalon Academy in collaboration with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and the District Administration, the festival included notable attendees such as Sayeed Mahmood Belal Haider, Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock; Poet, Writer, and Philosopher Farhad Mazhar; Former Member of Parliament and heroic Freedom Fighter Syed Mehdi Ahmed Roomy; and Superintendent of Police Md Mizanur Rahman.

Dr. Md Rashiduzzaman, a professor in the Bangla Department at Islamic University, served as the main discussant at the inauguration ceremony.