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Pandavani Legend Teejan Bai Passes Away at 70, Leaves Behind a Rich Cultural Legacy

Renowned Pandavani artist Teejan Bai, whose powerful performances introduced Chhattisgarh's traditional storytelling art to audiences around the world, passed away on Sunday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, following a prolonged illness. She was 70. According to hospital officials, the Padma Vibhushan awardee died at around 3:15 am. She had been receiving treatment at AIIMS since May 27. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences over her demise, describing her as an artist who played a pivotal role in taking Chhattisgarh's rich folk heritage to the global stage. In a post on X, the Prime Minister said that Teejan Bai's remarkable performances gave Pandavani and Chhattisgarh's folk traditions international recognition. He called her passing an irreparable loss to India's art and cultural landscape and extended his sympathies to her family, admirers, and the artistic community. Born in Durg district of Chhattisgarh, Teejan Bai became the most celebrated exponent of Pandavani, a traditional storytelling art that narrates episodes from the Mahabharata through dramatic narration, singing, and music. Her distinctive voice, energetic stage presence, and expressive storytelling style helped transform Pandavani from a regional folk tradition into a globally appreciated performing art. Over the course of her career, she performed extensively across India and in several countries, earning widespread acclaim for preserving and promoting India's folk heritage. Teejan Bai received some of the country's highest civilian honours in recognition of her immense contribution to Indian folk arts. She was honoured with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, reflecting her lasting impact on India's cultural legacy. Her death marks the end of an era for Pandavani, but her contributions will continue to inspire generations of artists and keep the centuries-old tradition alive.