India Bids Farewell to Pandavani Legend Teejan Bai

New Delhi, July 5, 2026 The passing of Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai marks the end of an extraordinary era in Indian folk arts. Celebrated for transforming Chhattisgarh’s traditional Pandavani into a globally recognised performance tradition, the legendary artist died in Raipur at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness. Her remarkable journey and lifelong dedication to preserving India’s cultural heritage have left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire artists and audiences alike. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in paying tribute to the iconic performer. President Murmu described her demise as a significant loss to India’s cultural heritage. In a post on X, the President said, “The news of the demise of the renowned Pandavani artist Smt. Teejan Bai ji is extremely heartbreaking. With her powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and unique style of presentation, she brought the tales of the Mahabharata to life. Through her exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and years of rigorous practice, she brought recognition to Chhattisgarh’s rich Pandavani tradition both in India and abroad. Her invaluable contribution to preserving and promoting India’s cultural heritage will always be remembered. I extend my deepest condolences to her loved ones and admirers.” Expressing grief over her demise, PM Modi said, “I am deeply saddened by the passing of the renowned Pandavani singer Teejan Bai ji. Through her grand performances, she gave this folk art form of Chhattisgarh a unique identity across the world. Her departure is an irreplaceable loss to the world of art and culture. In this hour of grief, my condolences are with her family and admirers. Om Shanti!” Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed condolences, remembering Teejan Bai’s immense contribution to Indian folk culture and her role in preserving the Pandavani tradition. In a post on X, HM Shah said, “The passing of the renowned Pandavani singer Smt. Teejan Bai Ji, honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, is an irreparable loss to the world of art. With her unique talent and unwavering dedication, she gave a distinct identity to the Pandavani folk art form. Her contribution to preserving this rich folk tradition of Chhattisgarh will always be remembered. May the departed soul attain eternal peace, and may God grant strength to her bereaved family and admirers to bear this profound loss. Om Shanti.” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, “I am deeply pained by the passing of the renowned Pandavani singer Teejan Bai ji, who left an indelible mark on the field of folk arts through her extraordinary performances. She played a vital role in bringing Chhattisgarh’s cultural heritage to national and international platforms. Her passing is an irreparable loss to the worlds of art and music. In this hour of grief, my condolences are with her family and admirers. Om Shanti!” Born on April 24, 1956, in Ganiyari village of Chhattisgarh’s Durg district, Teejan Bai began performing publicly at the age of 13 and went on to redefine Pandavani by becoming the first woman to perform the traditionally male-dominated standing Kapalika style. Across a career spanning more than five decades, she introduced the Mahabharata-based folk tradition to audiences around the world while overcoming social barriers with determination. Honoured with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, she leaves behind a timeless cultural legacy that will continue to shape and strengthen India's rich folk heritage.