Renowned Pandavani folk singer Teejan Bai passed away at AIIMS Raipur on Sunday at the age of 70 after a prolonged illness. She had been undergoing treatment since May 27, doctors confirmed.
Born in 1956 in Ganiyari village of Chhattisgarh’s Durg district, Teejan Bai rose from a modest background to become India’s most celebrated exponent of Pandavani, a traditional storytelling art form based on the Mahabharata.
Known for her powerful voice, expressive style and commanding stage presence, she transformed a regional folk tradition into an internationally recognised art form.
Despite early social opposition and financial hardship, she pursued her passion for storytelling and went on to perform across the world, including in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Japan, Russia, Australia and Germany.
Her performances earned her global acclaim and helped establish Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity on the world stage. She was honoured with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for her contribution to Indian folk arts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described her passing as an “irreparable loss” to art and culture. President Droupadi Murmu, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, and former CM Bhupesh Baghel also expressed grief, praising her role in preserving and popularising India’s folk heritage.
Leaders across the country said her legacy would continue to inspire generations and remain a cornerstone of India’s cultural tradition. (PTI)
