Pandavani legend Teejan Bai dies at 70

Teejan Bai, an artiste who took the ancient Chhattisgarhi folk tradition of Pandvani — musical narration of Mahabharata — to the world, died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raipur on Sunday (July 5, 2026) after a prolonged illness. She was 70.

Teejan Bai who shattered stereotypes by taking up the art form which was traditionally performed by men and using her lively voice, performed throughout India and across the globe for decades. She was conferred the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour.

The legendary singer was keeping unwell since some time and had been undergoing treatment in AIIMS since May 27.

She was born on April 24, 1956, in Ganiyari village of Durg district in a humble family and since an early age took a keen interest in learning the artform. Clad in a red saree draped in Chhattisgarhi style and holding the musical instrument tambura, she would leave audience spellbound wherever she performed.

Meet Teejan Bai, the folk artist from Chhattisgarh, who was feted in Japan

President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai were among those who condoled Teejan Bai’s death and paid their tributes to her.

“The news of the passing of renowned Pandavani artist Teejan Bai ji is deeply saddening. With her powerful voice, impressive presence, and unique presentation, she brought the tales of the Mahabharata to life on stage. Through her extraordinary talent, dedication, and years of practice, she brought Chhattisgarh’s rich Pandavani tradition to recognition both nationally and internationally. Her invaluable contribution to the dissemination of Indian cultural heritage will be remembered. I express my deepest condolences to her loved ones and admirers,” wrote the President on her official X handle @rashtrapatibhvn.

Mr Modi also took to X and wrote: “Deeply saddened by the demise of renowned Pandavani singer Teejan Bai ji. She gave Chhattisgarh’s folk art a unique global identity through her magnificent performances. Her passing is an irreparable loss to the world of art and culture. My condolences are with her family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”

Mr Shah said wrote on X that Teejan Bai’s unparalleled talent and dedication, she gave Pandavani folk art a distinct identity.

Mr Sai visited AIIMS, Raipur, where he met the bereaved family members and expressed his condolences.

“Paying tribute, Shri Sai said that Dr Teejan Bai, through her extraordinary artistic dedication and exceptional talent, gave Pandavani a distinct global identity and brought immense pride to Chhattisgarh. He described her passing as an irreparable loss to the state’s folk traditions and cultural heritage,” said a statement issued from his office.

Former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel also paid tribute, calling Teejan Bai an invaluable jewel of Chhattisgarh whose contribution to keeping the Pandavani tradition alive brought immense pride to the State and the country.