The Chhattisgarh government has announced that a government school in the native village of legendary Pandavani singer Teejan Bai will be named in her honour. School Education Minister Gajendra Yadav made the announcement on Sunday, a day after the Padma Vibhushan awardee died at the age of 70 following a prolonged illness.
Minister Announces Renaming of School
Yadav visited Teejan Bai's residence in Ganiyari, Durg district, on Sunday to offer floral tributes to her mortal remains before the last rites. He later joined the funeral procession and attended the cremation at her native village. Addressing a condolence meeting, the minister declared that the Government Higher Secondary School in Ganiyari would be renamed as "Dr Teejan Bai Government Higher Secondary School, Ganiyari."
Yadav stated that the decision was a true tribute to the iconic folk artist and would inspire future generations through her remarkable life, struggles, and immense contribution to preserving and promoting Chhattisgarh's rich cultural heritage.
Teejan Bai's Global Impact on Pandavani
Teejan Bai, who received the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, was renowned for popularizing Pandavani, a traditional storytelling art form from Chhattisgarh that narrates episodes from the Mahabharata. She performed across India and internationally, bringing global recognition to the folk tradition. She died at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Raipur on Saturday morning after a prolonged illness.
"Teejan Bai, through her unparalleled artistic excellence, powerful voice and lifelong dedication, gave Chhattisgarh's vibrant folk culture recognition not only across India but also on the global stage," Yadav said. He added that her demise marks the end of a golden chapter in Chhattisgarh's cultural history.
Legacy of a Folk Legend
Born in 1956 in Ganiyari, Teejan Bai began performing Pandavani at a young age, breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated art form. She received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2003, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2019. Her powerful renditions and unique style captivated audiences worldwide, making her a cultural ambassador for Chhattisgarh.
The school renaming is seen as a fitting tribute to her legacy, ensuring that future generations remember her contributions to Indian folk art.
