Upholding the tradition of Lalon's Akhra

Fakir Bader Shah and Fakirani Shona Bibi. PHOTO: STAR

Fakir Abdul Gani Shah known as Bader Shah was the Khadem of Lalon's shrine. His mentor was Fakir Kokil Shah, whose mentor in turn was Fakir Bholai Shah. And the latter was the adopted son as well disciple of Fakir Lalon Shah.

Like most of the Lalon followers, Bader Shah's ancestors were weavers.

Later he became a Lalon follower and subsequently gained Khilka Khelafat (the highest state of knowledge and sacredness; the cult believes that at this stage one is prepared to absorb the Lord in the soul) 50 years back. After gaining Khelafat, men wear white lungis and long white tunics while women wear white saris and are forbidden to bear children, though some may do so before gaining Khelafat.

Fakir Bader Shah said, "Being attracted to Fakir Lalon Shah's verses which are principles of Ohadaniat (the belief that glorifies human beings) I became a Lalon devotee. We believe that all human beings are equal, irrespective of caste and creed. I can render 200 Kalams (Lalon songs). And I've heard from my guru that Fakir Lalon Shah composed over 1,000 Kalams in Dehotatta, Nabitatta and Shadhondesher."

Even at the age of 101, the blind Fakir arranges Shadhushongha (where the Fakirs are entertained) at his house on Dolpurnima (on the full-moon of Bangla month Phalgun) and on the first day of Bangla month of Kartik, the death anniversary of Fakir Lalon Shah. At these gatherings Fakirs perform religious rites and render Kalams.

Why does he arrange Shadhushangha at his house? Fakir Bader Shah says, "Since the inception of Lalon Academy Complex, Lalon's Mazar has become a government property and the committee that runs the Complex is highly corrupt. And no Fakirs go there to celebrate Dolpurnima or Pahela Kartik-- two major celebrations of the cult-- festivals. That's why I arrange the festivals near the field of my house."

Fakir Bader Shah has over 150 disciples. Fakirani Shona Bibi, who takes care of the seasoned Fakir, is the wife of Bader Shah's disciple.

Fakirani Shona Bibi said, "I've gained Khilka Khelafat 10 years back. My husband has sent me here to take care of my guru." The other residence of the room Kanu, the youngest son of Fakir Bader Shah, said, "I've yet to gain Khelafat. I'm still in the learning process of becoming a true devotee of Lalon Shah."