Chhattisgarh assembly's monsoon session begins with heartfelt tributes to Pandvani legend Teejan Bai

Raipur, Jul 13 (PTI) The Chhattisgarh assembly on Monday paid rich tributes to renowned Pandvani exponent and Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai, who passed away on July 5, with members across party lines recalling her immense contribution to folk art and culture. The five-day Monsoon Session of the assembly began with Speaker Raman Singh mentioning the demise of Teejan Bai, who died at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here at the age of 70. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Leader of Opposition Charan Das Mahant, former chief minister Bhupesh Baghel, minister Rajesh Agrawal and other members paid homage to the legendary folk artist. Describing her death as an irreparable loss to the cultural world, Sai said Chhattisgarh had lost one of the finest jewels of its rich folk tradition. He said Teejan Bai elevated the 'Kapalik' style of Pandvani singing to new heights and earned national and international recognition for the traditional storytelling art through her exceptional talent. "Her unique blend of singing and acting, vivid portrayal of characters and powerful narration captivated audiences across the world. Teejan Bai's life was an inspiring example of struggle, dedication and perseverance," Sai said. At a time when women had little participation in Pandvani performances, she broke social barriers and carved out a distinct identity, inspiring future generations of artists, he said. He noted that she showcased Chhattisgarh's cultural heritage in several countries across Asia, Europe and other parts of the world, helping establish the state's cultural identity on the global stage. The chief minister said Teejan Bai was honoured with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honour, in 2019. She remains the only personality from Chhattisgarh to have received the Padma Vibhushan, he said. Sai also recalled that President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several Union ministers had paid tributes to the legendary artist after her demise. Several universities had conferred honorary D Litt degrees on Teejan Bai in recognition of her contribution to preserving and promoting Indian folk music and culture, the CM added. Leader of Opposition Charan Das Mahant said Teejan Bai was the pride of Chhattisgarh and that hardly anyone in the state was unfamiliar with her art. The Congress MLA said former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi had recognised her extraordinary talent, leading to her being conferred the Padma Shri in 1988. Mahant also urged the state government to institute an award in Teejan Bai's name to honour excellence in folk arts. The House observed a two-minute silence as a mark of respect before Speaker Raman Singh adjourned the proceedings for five minutes. PTI TKP BNM