New Delhi, 05 July (H.S.):

President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and several other senior leaders on Sunday expressed profound grief over the demise of Padma Vibhushan awardee and legendary Pandwani folk singer Dr. Teejan Bai. Describing her as an invaluable custodian of India's folk heritage, the leaders said her passing marks an irreparable loss to the country's cultural landscape and to the rich Pandwani tradition of Chhattisgarh.

In a post on X, President Droupadi Murmu wrote, The news of the demise of Pandwani artist Teejan Bai Ji is deeply saddening. Through her powerful voice, commanding stage presence and unique style of performance, she brought the stories of the Mahabharata alive on stage. With her exceptional talent, dedication and years of tireless practice, she gave Chhattisgarh's rich Pandwani tradition recognition across India and the world. Her invaluable contribution to promoting India's cultural heritage will always be remembered. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family members and admirers.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said in his condolence message, With the passing of Teejan Bai Ji, Indian folk art, culture and the world of music have lost a priceless gem. Through her distinctive style, powerful expression and vibrant performances, she gave Chhattisgarh's traditional Pandwani singing a unique identity at the national and international levels. Her entire life was dedicated to preserving, promoting and passing on India's rich folk traditions to future generations. I pray to God to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family to bear this immense loss.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X, Deeply saddened by the passing of the renowned Pandwani singer Teejan Bai Ji. Through her magnificent performances, she gave Chhattisgarh's folk art of Pandwani a unique identity across the world. Her demise is an irreparable loss to the world of art and culture. In this hour of grief, my condolences are with her family and admirers. Om Shanti!

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said, The demise of renowned Pandwani folk singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai Ji is extremely saddening. Through her extraordinary talent and lifelong dedication, she gave Pandwani folk art a distinct identity. Her contribution to preserving and enriching Chhattisgarh's rich folk tradition will always be remembered. I pray to God to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family in this hour of grief.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said, The demise of Padma Vibhushan awardee and renowned Pandwani folk singer Teejan Bai Ji is deeply saddening. Through her powerful voice and exceptional artistry, she gave Pandwani folk art a new identity and brought immense glory to Indian culture. Her passing is an irreparable loss to the world of art and culture. I pray to God to grant eternal peace to the departed soul and give strength to the bereaved family to bear this profound loss. Om Shanti.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar