Pandavani legend Teejan Bai passed away at the age of 70

Teejan Bai, the artist who brought to the world the ancient folk tradition of Chhattisgarhi Pandavani, a musical retelling of the Mahabharata, passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raipur on Sunday (July 5, 2026) after prolonged illness. She was 70.

Teejan Bai has broken stereotypes by taking on an art form traditionally run by men and performing with her vibrant voice across India and the world for decades. She has been awarded the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian honour.

The legendary singer has been unwell for some time and has been undergoing treatment at AIIMS Raipur since May 27, 2026. She died at about 3:15 a.m., doctors at the hospital confirmed. Teejan Bai later on Sunday (July 5, 2026) at her native village Ganiyari bid her farewell with all the state honors.

Born on 24 April 1956 in Ganiyari village of Durg district in a humble family, she was very interested in learning Pandava from an early age. After receiving initial training from her maternal grandfather, Brajlal Pardha, she made her first public performance on stage at the age of just 13.

Breaking barriers

When she started, women traditionally performed Pandavani while seated in the Vedamati style. However, Teejan Bai challenged this tradition and started performing stand-up in the style of male Kapalika artists with acting, dialogues, singing and expressions. This style later became her distinctive identity. Clad in a red sari draped in a Chhattisgarhi pattern and holding a tanpura (a stringed instrument), she left audiences spellbound wherever she performed.

It was a well-known theater personality, the late Habib Tanvir, who recognized her talent and brought her to a bigger stage. After that, Teejan Bai never looked back. She has performed in front of a number of national and international personalities, including the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

She has brought the folk culture of Chhattisgarh to the world by performing Pandavani in more than 17 countries including England, France, Germany, Turkey, Mauritius and Japan. Her powerful voice, acting and storytelling style introduced Indian folk traditions to foreign audiences.

Meet Teejan Bai, a folk artist from Chhattisgarh who was celebrated in Japan

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

“The news of the passing away of renowned Pandavan artist Teejana Bai ji is deeply saddened. With her powerful voice, impressive presence and unique presentation, she brought the stories of the Mahabharata to life on stage. With her extraordinary talent, dedication and years of practice, she brought the rich tradition of Pandavan Chhattisgarh recognition both nationally and internationally. Her invaluable contribution to India’s cultural heritage will be remembered contribution. sincere condolences to her loved ones and admirers,” said President Droupadi Murmu on her official X.

“Deeply saddened by the demise of the famous Pandavani singer Teejan Bai ji. She gave the folk art of Chhattisgarh a unique global identity through her spectacular performances. Her passing is an irreparable loss to the world of art and culture. Heartfelt condolences to her family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti,” Mr Modi said on X.

Teejan Bai’s unparalleled talent and dedication have given Pandavani folk art a distinctive identity, Mr. Shah said at X.

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

“Paying tributes, Shri Sai said that Dr. Teejan Bai, through her extraordinary artistic commitment and exceptional talent, gave Pandavan a distinct global identity and brought immense pride to Chhattisgarh. He described her departure as an irreparable loss to the folk traditions and cultural heritage of the state,” a statement from the chief minister’s office said.

Former Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Bhupesh Baghel also paid his tributes terming Teejan Bai as a priceless jewel of Chhattisgarh whose contribution to sustain the Pandavani tradition has brought immense pride to the state and the country.

Published – 05 Jul 2026 08:36 IST