Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over her death and paid tribute to her contribution to Indian culture.
“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,” he wrote on X.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described Teejan Bai’s passing as an irreparable loss, not only to Chhattisgarh’s folk tradition, but also for the entire country.
Legendary Pandavani folk singer Teejan Bai hailing from Chhattisgarh breathed her last at Raipur AIIMS on Sunday in the wee hours. According to doctors, celebrated Pandavani exponent Teejan Bai succumbed to prolonged illness at the age of 70. She was undergoing a treatment since May 27 and was on ventilator support, the doctors added.
The hospital said in a statement, “Despite continuous monitoring, intensive care, and comprehensive treatment by experts from various specialities, her condition remained extremely critical. In the early hours of July 5, 2026, at approximately 2.45 am, she suffered a cardiac arrest. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was initiated immediately and carried out as per established advanced life support protocols. However, despite all possible efforts, she could not be revived and was declared deceased at 3.15 am. Her family members were informed immediately.”
Born in Chhattisgarh’s Durg district, Teejan Bai became one of India’s most celebrated folk artists who brought laurels to the story telling art both globally and nationally. She was conferred the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honour.
Death of Teejan Bai concludes the Pandavani art chapter forever. Pandavani, is an art form Teejan Bai dedicated her life to preserving and popularising. Her performances ensured that one of Chhattisgarh’s oldest storytelling traditions found audiences far beyond its place of origin, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations of folk artists. Teejan Bai was known for her commanding voice and dramatic stage presence. She used her talent to narrate episodes of Mahabharat adding a musical touch, transforming the regional folk art into an internationally acclaimed art form.