In the heart of rural Maharashtra, surrounded by the gentle rustle of sugarcane fields and the unhurried rhythm of village life, lies the serene village of Parner in Ahmednagar. Here, we had the opportunity to meet Bhagwan Garje and his remarkable ensemble of musicians. These artists are the keepers of Bhedik Lavani and Kalgi Tura, art forms that seamlessly intertwine intellect, devotion, and music. Their craft is not just about performance; it is a reflection of life’s mysteries, the essence of existence, and the resilience of tradition.
Our journey to Parner took us over 100 miles into a world untouched by the distractions of city life. As we arrived, the golden hues of the setting sun bathed the fields in warmth, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. Bhagwanji and his group welcomed us with a quiet humility that mirrored the simplicity of their attire—traditional white dhotis, kurtas, and Gandhi caps.
The day was particularly challenging for the group as they were fasting. Yet, there was no sign of weariness in their performance. Instead, they exuded an energy that was both spiritual and uplifting. Bhagwanji, with his Dhap in hand, led the ensemble with a grace that commanded attention. His voice seemed to transcend the ordinary, carrying with it the weight of wisdom and devotion.
Kalgi Tura, a form of Bhedik Lavani, thrives on a poetic interplay of questions and answers, exploring profound topics such as creation, existence, and the nature of life. “Bhed means mystery,” Bhagwanji explained. “It is through these mysteries that we connect with our audience, not just intellectually, but spiritually.” The group’s mastery of this art form allowed them to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, encouraging reflection and dialogue.
The instruments played by the group—Dhap, Tuntuna, and Dimdi—felt like natural extensions of their voices and personalities. The Dhap, with its commanding rhythm, formed the backbone of the music. The Tuntuna added a melodic charm, while the Dimdi and accompanying beats created a hypnotic rhythm. Each note and beat seemed purposeful, carrying an unspoken message that resonated with the listener.
During the performance, Bhagwanji stepped forward during the antara sections, his movements emphasizing the depth of his words. The group’s synergy was mesmerizing, and their songs spoke of resilience, everyday struggles, and the power of faith. The environment itself seemed to respond—open fields, the hum of nature, and the golden light of the evening came together to create an atmosphere that was both tranquil and alive.
After the performance, we sat with Bhagwanji and his team to understand their connection to this art form. “सहज बोलणे हाच उपदेशी, करून सायास शिकवितात,” Bhagwanji shared. He explained that music, when delivered with simplicity, becomes a powerful medium for teaching and learning. For him, Kalgi Tura is not just entertainment; it is a way of imparting wisdom and fostering a sense of community.
But there was also concern. Bhagwanji spoke about the diminishing interest of younger generations in these traditional art forms. “We cannot fully give in to modern ways,” he said. “They have their place, but if we forget our own culture, no one can teach it to us again.” His words carried the weight of experience and a quiet urgency to preserve what remains.
Despite the lack of recognition and resources, their commitment to this art form is unwavering. With basic equipment—a five-channel mixer and analog recorders—they create music that resonates deeply with those fortunate enough to hear it. For Bhagwanji and his group, the goal is not just to perform but to inspire a love for this tradition in the hearts of the next generation.
The evening left us deeply moved. As the final notes of their performance faded into the cool evening air, it felt as though we had been part of something greater than a musical event. Bhagwanji and his group offered more than music; they offered a glimpse into a way of life rooted in simplicity, devotion, and shared humanity.
It’s hard to describe the emotions that lingered as we left Parner. Gratitude, admiration, and a quiet hope that their melodies would continue to ripple outward, reaching new ears and hearts. For now, we carry their songs with us, a reminder of the power of tradition to ground us, teach us, and connect us to something timeless.
