The mortal remains of renowned Pandwani exponent and Padma Vibhushan awardee, Dr Teejan Bai, was consigned to flames with full State honour on Sunday at her native village, Ganiyari. Prior to this, police personnel presented a Guard of Honor as a mark of respect. Dignitaries present on the occasion included School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav, MP Vijay Baghel, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, MLAs Doman Lal Korsewada, Lalit Chandrakar, along with Divisional Commissioner S N Rathore, IG Abhishek Shandilya, Collector Abhijit Singh, and SSP Vijay Agrawal paid tribute by laying floral wreaths on her mortal remains. A large crowd and numerous folk artists were present at the funeral. It is noteworthy that the legendary Pandwani singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr Teejan Bai, who brought global acclaim to Chhattisgarh’s folk art, passed away early Sunday morning. She had been ailing for a long time and was undergoing treatment at AIIMS, Raipur.

 

Dr Teejan Bai breathed her last at approximately 3:15 AM on Sunday. News of her demise has sent a wave of grief through the art community. Whenever Chhattisgarh’s folk culture is mentioned with respect on the global stage, Padma Vibhushan Dr Teejan Bai is among the foremost figures to be named. With her powerful voice, extraordinary acting prowess, and her colorful Tanpura, she brought the tales of the Mahabharata to life and elevated the folk art form of Pandwani to a global platform. Despite lacking formal education, she championed Chhattisgarh’s culture across the country and abroad through the sheer strength of her talent and tireless struggle. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the passing of Teejan Bai. He wrote on X, “She brought global recognition to the folk art of Chhattisgarh through her magnificent performances. Her demise is an irreparable loss to the world of art and culture.” Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai stated that she brought glory to the State, both within the country and abroad, through Pandwani.