Renowned Pandwani folk singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai has passed away at the age of 70. She breathed her last at Raipur AIIMS, where she had been undergoing treatment for a while. Soon after news of her demise broke, Union Home Minister Amit Shah posted a message of condolence on social media, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed grief over her passing.
Who Was Teejan Bai
Teejan Bai established her command over Pandwani singing with her voice at the age of just 13. Over the decades, she carried this traditional folk art form of Chhattisgarh to audiences across the country and won the hearts of millions with her distinctive style of performance. In recognition of her contribution, she was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, the country's second highest civilian award.
Her Declining Health Over The Months
Teejan Bai's health had been a matter of concern for months before her death. In March, she suddenly fell ill and was admitted to the ICU at Raipur AIIMS. In November 2025, after Prime Minister Modi enquired about her health over a phone call, the local administration swung into action and a team of doctors, along with the district collector, personally visited her home. Later, at the end of May 2026, her condition worsened again and she had to be readmitted to the ICU, during which her daughter-in-law Venu Deshmukh updated the media on her health. After prolonged treatment, she eventually breathed her last at Raipur AIIMS.
What Amit Shah Said
In his post, Amit Shah said the death of the celebrated Pandwani singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai is an irreparable loss to the world of art. He said that with her unique talent and dedication, Teejan Bai gave the Pandwani folk art form a distinct identity. He added that her contribution to preserving this folk art of Chhattisgarh will always be remembered, and prayed for peace for her departed soul.
About Chhattisgarh
Teejan Bai's home state, Chhattisgarh, is a relatively young but resource rich state in India. It was formed on 1 November 2000 as the country's 26th state, having earlier been part of Madhya Pradesh. The state is a major source of electricity and steel for the country, accounting for around 15% of the total steel produced in India. Chhattisgarh is also counted among the fastest developing states in the country.
Public Reaction
Amit Shah's post drew a large number of tributes, with many recalling Teejan Bai's role in giving Pandwani folk art its distinct national identity. Some users described Chhattisgarh's cultural heritage as immortalised through her work, while others responded with emotional prayers for her.
