Monsoon Session Chhattisgarh: Assembly Pays Emotional Tribute to Padma Vibhushan Teejan Bai
The legislative proceedings in Chhattisgarh kicked off on an emotional note as the five-day monsoon session of the State Assembly commenced on Monday, July 13, 2026. Presided over by Speaker Raman Singh, the opening day of the House saw leaders from across the political spectrum put aside partisan debates to honor the memory of legendary Pandavani exponent and Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai, who passed away on July 5 at the age of 70 at AIIMS, Raipur.
House Remembers the Passing of a Cultural Icon
The solemn proceedings began with Speaker Raman Singh officially recording the demise of the iconic folk artist. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, Leader of the Opposition Charan Das Mahant, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, Minister Rajesh Agarwal, and other esteemed members of the House stood in remembrance. Leaders reflected on Teejan Bai's monumental and peerless contribution to propagating traditional folk art and bringing global visibility to the rich cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh.
Chief Minister Sai Calls Her Passing an Irreparable Loss
Addressing the floor of the Assembly, Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai described her departure as an irreplaceable vacuum in the cultural fabric of the nation and the state. He emphasized that Chhattisgarh has lost one of the brightest jewels of its indigenous tradition. Highlighting her mastery over the distinct "Kapalika" style of Pandavani, the Chief Minister noted how her raw, passionate storytelling and vibrant stage presence elevated traditional oral epics to international auditoriums, mesmerizing audiences across continents.
A Trailblazer Who Broke Social Barriers
Chief Minister Sai further underscored that Teejan Bai's life journey stands as a towering testament to unyielding dedication, hard work, and the courage to conquer societal limitations. At a time when female participation in the male-dominated sphere of Kapalik style Pandavani was virtually unheard of, she shattered deep-seated social barriers with supreme resilience. Her legacy continues to serve as an enduring beacon of empowerment and inspiration for upcoming generations of performing artists throughout India and beyond.
