Renowned Pandavani folk singer Teejan Bai died Sunday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Raipur, Chhattisgarh [1], [3].

Bai was a central figure in preserving the oral traditions of India, specifically the Pandavani style of storytelling. Her influence extended beyond music, turning a regional folk art into a recognized cultural treasure through her unique performance style and global reach.

She was 70 years old at the time of her death [2]. Reports indicate she died after a prolonged illness while receiving care at AIIMS Raipur [3], [4].

As a distinguished exponent of her craft, Bai received the Padma Vibhushan [1], one of India's highest civilian honors. This recognition underscored her role in elevating folk art to the national stage, a feat that provided visibility to the cultural identity of Chhattisgarh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was grieved over the loss of the legendary singer [3]. Official reports indicate she will receive full state honours [1].

Pandavani is a traditional storytelling form that narrates the stories of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. Bai broke traditional norms by performing the art in a manner that challenged gender expectations and brought the storytelling tradition to international audiences.

“Teejan Bai died Sunday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in Raipur”

The death of Teejan Bai marks the loss of a primary custodian of the Pandavani tradition. Because she bridged the gap between rural folk performance and formal national recognition, her passing may trigger a period of transition for the art form as new practitioners seek to maintain the visibility she established on the global stage.