Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sahay pays heartfelt tribute to Padma Vibhushan Dr. Teejan Bai in the Assembly

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sahay paid a heartfelt tribute to Padma Vibhushan Dr. Teejan Bai in the Assembly. Chhattisgarh has lost a priceless gem of its folk culture: she will forever remain a source of inspiration for future generations – Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sahay. Raipur, July 13, 2026 – During the monsoon session of the Chhattisgarh Assembly, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sahay expressed sorrow over the death of the world‑renowned Pandwani singer Dr. Teejan Bai, who had been honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, and offered a moving homage. While announcing the death, the Chief Minister said that Dr. Teejan Bai’s demise means Chhattisgarh has lost an invaluable jewel of its folk culture. Her passing caused an irreparable loss to the art and cultural world. He added that Dr. Teejan Bai elevated the Kapalik style of Pandwani singing to new heights and, with her extraordinary talent, gave folk art national and international recognition. Her performances featured a wonderful blend of singing and acting, vivid character portrayal, resonant voice and powerful presentation that mesmerised audiences. He said Dr. Teejan Bai’s life is an inspiring example of struggle, devotion and dedication. At a time when women’s participation in Pandwani singing was extremely limited, she challenged social stereotypes, forged a distinct identity and became a source of inspiration for future generations. He noted that Dr. Teejan Bai showcased Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity on the global stage through her impactful performances in many countries across Asia, Europe and beyond. For her unique contributions she was honoured with Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and several other national and international accolades. In 2019 the Government of India decorated her with the country’s second‑highest civilian honour, the Padma Vibhushan, making her the only recipient from Chhattisgarh. The Chief Minister said that President Draupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and central ministers also paid tribute to Dr. Teejan Bai’s unparalleled contribution to the arts. He mentioned that during the state festival, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who visited Raipur, spoke with Dr. Teejan Bai’s family over the phone to enquire about their wellbeing. He also said that several universities honoured Dr. Teejan Bai with an honorary D.Litt. degree. Her contribution to the preservation and promotion of Indian folk music and culture will always be etched in golden letters. Her art, devotion and dedication will continue to inspire future generations to take pride in their cultural heritage and carry it forward. Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sahay, on behalf of the House, offered a humble tribute to the late Padma Vibhushan Dr. Teejan Bai and prayed to God to place her soul at His feet. He asked that the Almighty grant strength to the grieving family, her countless admirers and the art world to bear this immense sorrow.