Padma Vibhushan awardee and renowned Pandwani singer Teejan Bai, aged 70, passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raipur after battling a prolonged illness. Teejan Bai, known for her mastery in Pandwani, a Chhattisgarh-based folk singing style narrating tales from the Mahabharata, breathed her last at 3.15 a.m. on Sunday following treatment since May 27. She was suffering from severe lung infection, bloodstream infection (sepsis), and acute kidney injury.
Teejan Bai, born in 1956 in Ganiyari village near Bhilai, rose from humble beginnings to become a globally acclaimed artist. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over her demise, acknowledging her significant contributions to the world of art and culture. PM Modi praised Teejan Bai’s exceptional talent in popularizing Pandwani, a traditional folk art form of Chhattisgarh, on a global scale.
Known for her emotional and dynamic performances while seated on stage, Teejan Bai’s unique style brought the lesser-known folk tradition of Pandwani to international prominence. Throughout her illustrious career, she received prestigious accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1988, Padma Bhushan in 2003, and Padma Vibhushan in 2019. Teejan Bai’s immense contribution to Indian folk culture was also recognized with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1995 and various other honors.
