'Irreplaceable loss to art & culture': PM Modi mourns demise of folk singer Teejan Bai

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep grief over the passing of renowned Pandavani singer Teejan Bai, describing her death as an “irreplaceable loss to the world of art and culture.”In a post on X, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the Padma Vibhushan awardee, saying her performances had given the traditional folk art form of Chhattisgarh a global identity.“I am deeply saddened by the passing of the renowned Pandavani singer Tijan Bai ji. Through her grand performances, she gave this folk art form of Chhattisgarh a unique identity across the world. Her departure is an irreplaceable loss to the world of art and culture. In this hour of grief, my condolences are with her family and admirers. Om Shanti!” PM Modi wrote on X.Nation pays tribute to cultural iconTeejan Bai, one of the most celebrated exponents of Pandavani, passed away at a hospital in Raipur after a prolonged illness, doctors confirmed, according to news agency PTI.Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai said her contribution had brought immense pride to the state on national and global platforms.“Teejan Bai has passed away, who was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan and Padma Shri. She had brought glory to Chhattisgarh across the entire country and the world. We pay humble tribute to her...,” Sai said.State minister Kedar Kashyap also expressed sorrow over her demise, calling it a major loss for the cultural identity of the state.“The passing of Teejan Bai is deeply saddening. This morning brought extremely sorrowful news for all of us and the entire nation regarding the artist who upheld the honour and prestige of Chhattisgarh on national and international platforms…it is an irreplaceable loss for Chhattisgarh and the entire nation,” he said.Teejan Bai was widely regarded as a towering figure in Pandavani, a traditional storytelling art form from Chhattisgarh based on the Mahabharata.Her powerful performances helped take the folk tradition to global audiences and earned her some of India’s highest civilian honours, including the Padma Shri and Padma Vibhushan.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.