Lalon shah (1774-1890) is best known as an iconic of the baul tradition in bengal, although he was also a phillosopher, thinker and social reformer. He preached religious tolerance and rejected social differences based on class, caste and creed. He also believed that a search for truth should begin with the body, which reflects the mystery of creation.
Although Lalon's songs are admired for the profound philosophical and mystical insights they offer, he did not receive any formal education. Not much is known about his early life. A popular story about him-which many believe to be true -- is that while on a pilgrimage to a holy place, Lalon, who was born a Hindu, contracted smallpox and was abandoned by his companions. A Muslim fakir, Siraj Sain, picked him up and took him to his own house where he nursed him back to health. When Lalon returned home, his family refused to take him in as he had lived in a Muslim household. So Lalon returned to Siraj Sain and took a life of devotion and asceticism under his guidance. After the death of Sainji, Lalon set up an akirah or monastery in Chheuriya near Kushtia. It soon attracted admires and mystics in search of salvation who became initiated into Baul asceticism and became his disciples. As Lalon began writing and composing songs, which his disciples sang with the accompaniment of ektara or dotara, his frame spread to fareway places. Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam were among those who admired him and were influenced by his shahajiya philosophy (the attainment of the self thorough the simple truths that reside in one's own body and soul ---not outside-- which can be reached through sadhana or meditation). Many of his disciples also became famous for their songs. They included Kangal Harinath Majumdar, Pagla Kanai and Dudu Shah.