International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development

Authors
Ahmad Mahbub-ul-Alam, Mohammad Ehsanul Islam Khan, Md. Tariqul Islam

Abstract
Baul Shamrat Shah Abdul Karim was a distinctive Bengali spiritual saint, mystic lyricist, song composer and a social reformer of modern era. His works and ideology have an immense influence on sub-continental music and culture especially in Bengali and Indian culture after almost two hundreds years of the period of great Lalon Shah. Most of his lyrics have simple messages, but the appeal is utmost universal. Mysticism, optimism, truth, spiritualism, pragmatism, straightforwardness, morals and ethics are simultaneously profound in Karim's lyrics. Some of the lyrics are concerned with the behavior and attitude of common men. Karim's lyrics were the great devices for changing the society and human thoughts as well. He believed in the power of music to alter the intellectual and emotional state in order to be able to understand and appreciate life itself. He has become an iconic figure for practicing religious tolerance.