The vibrant world of Indian folk music has suffered an irreparable loss with the passing of Padma Vibhushan awardee Dr. Teejan Bai. The legendary artist, who single-handedly elevated Chhattisgarh’s traditional Pandavani singing to global prominence, passed away after a prolonged illness at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raipur. Paying his deepest respects, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai rushed to the hospital to honor the cultural icon who brought immense pride to the state.CM Sai Pays Heartfelt Tribute at AIIMS Raipur Upon arriving at AIIMS Raipur, Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai laid a wreath on the mortal remains of the revered singer, offering his final goodbyes. Consoling the bereaved family members, the Chief Minister noted that Dr. Teejan Bai's extraordinary talent and unparalleled dedication gave Pandavani a distinct, majestic identity on the world stage. Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, MLA Purandar Mishra, and several other public representatives were also present to pay their respects to the departed soul.Taking Pandavani to the World Stage Hailing from the Durg district of Chhattisgarh, Teejan Bai was celebrated for her roaring voice, magnetic stage presence, and soulful storytelling. She transformed Pandavani—a regional folk art form dedicated to vividly narrating thrilling episodes from the Mahabharata through powerful vocals and traditional music—into an internationally acclaimed art. CM Sai emphasized that her departure is a permanent void in the cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh and the entire nation.A Long Battle with Illness Comes to an End The world-renowned artist breathed her last at 3:15 AM on Sunday. According to medical reports, she had been undergoing intensive treatment at AIIMS Raipur since May 27. While her physical journey has come to an end, her majestic renditions of the Mahabharata and her unparalleled contribution to Indian folk arts will continue to inspire generations of artists worldwide.
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