Kalgi Turra is a traditional art form that was once found in regions from Karnataka to Uttar
Pradesh. However, today it has found a home in the rural environment of Nimad, Madhya
Pradesh. It is a very rich and intellectual expression of Shiv-Shakti. Traditionally, it is a
competitive artform where there are two sets of Choirs – the Kalgi Dal or team representing
Shakti, and the Turra Dal representing Lord Shiva. Both choirs have singers and songwriters
and are accompanied by musical instrumentalists. The songs are sung in a question-answer
format based on themes from Hindu Epics and the Puranas, and in modern times also cover
themes of social awareness. The creation of some of the songs can even be extempore.

Here, Rajendra Goswami and Rajaram Yadav who are Farmers, sing Kalgi and Turra.
Hailing from the village of Selmada in Barwani district, MP they have been practising
the art for over twenty-five years. Inspired by their elders both have learnt the existing
repertoire but also sing their own compositions.