Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai, pioneering Pandavani singer, dies at 69
Renowned Pandavani folk singer Teejan Bai passed away in Raipur in the early hours of Sunday following a prolonged illness. She was 69 years old.
Teejan Bai was the only person from Chhattisgarh to have been awarded the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian honour, in recognition of her contributions to the performing arts. She was also a recipient of the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over her demise in a social media post, stating, '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!'
Teejan Bai was instrumental in popularising Pandavani, a traditional performing art form that narrates stories from the Mahabharata, both in India and internationally. She began performing at a young age and went on to perform in over 30 countries, earning acclaim for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence.
Her death marks the end of an era for Chhattisgarh's folk music tradition. She is survived by her family.
