Renowned Folk Artist Teejan Bai Dies in Raipur After Long Illness. (Image: Internet)
New Delhi: Renowned Pandavani exponent and Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai passed away at 3:15 am on Sunday at AIIMS Hospital in Raipur. She was 70 years old and had been undergoing treatment since May 27 for a prolonged illness.
Hospital authorities confirmed her death, bringing an end to the life of one of India’s most celebrated folk artists. Her demise has sparked widespread grief across the cultural and artistic community.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over her passing, calling her contribution to Indian folk art irreplaceable. He noted that Teejan Bai gave Pandavani global recognition through her powerful performances and deep storytelling of the Mahabharata.
Her death has drawn tributes from artists, cultural institutions, and admirers across the country who remembered her as a voice that carried India’s traditional heritage to the world stage.
Born on April 24, 1956, in Ganiyari village of Durg district, Teejan Bai discovered her passion for storytelling at a young age. She was drawn to the tales of the Mahabharata and began performing Pandavani despite social and financial challenges.
At just 13, she made her first public performance in Chandkhuri village, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in Indian folk music.
At a time when the Kapalik style of Pandavani was largely dominated by male performers, Teejan Bai broke social barriers and established herself through sheer talent and dedication. Her expressive voice and dramatic narration style made her performances widely popular.
Over her six-decade career, she performed across India and internationally, including in the United States, United Kingdom, France, Japan, Russia, Australia, and Germany. Her work brought Pandavani to global audiences and elevated Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity.
She was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1988, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1995, Padma Bhushan in 2003, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2019. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of folk artists across India.
