The Quest

Book Details

• Publisher: NIYOGI BOOKS

• Author: Shankar Sen

• Language: English

• Edition: First Edition

• ISBN: 9789381523131

• Pages: 304

• Cover: Paperback

About The Book

The Quest (Moner Manush) is more than just a biography of the legendary Lalon Fakir; it is a profound exploration of his journey—both personal and spiritual. Written as a film script, this book follows the transformation of a simple young man into the revered figure of Lalon Fakir, revealing the social dynamics of the time and the deep faith between a disciple and his Guru. It unveils the philosophical and emotional depths that led Lalon to his profound understanding of life and the universe.

Lalon Fakir, an iconic figure in Bengali culture, is known for his devotional songs that transcend religious boundaries, intertwining the music of the Baul community with deeply philosophical musings. Through his lyrics, Lalon communicated a message of universal love, spirituality, and freedom. Rejecting the constraints of institutionalized religions, the Bauls embraced a more liberated, inclusive approach to spirituality, expressing their beliefs through poetry, music, and song.

This film-script vividly portrays Lalon’s philosophy—his journey toward a singular entity that his heart desperately yearned for. It paints a vivid picture of the Baul community's revolt against established customs and religions, showcasing how they created a spiritual space beyond narrow religious divides. In Lalon's own words, they were like "a rudderless raft in a shore-less river," a hidden current where one could be lost in search of the true self. This book offers not only an insight into Lalon’s life but also into the transformative power of spirituality and love, as envisioned by the Baul tradition.