Why in News?
Padma Vibhushan awardee Teejan Bai (1956–2026), the foremost exponent of Pandavani, passed away at AIIMS Raipur. She played a pivotal role in taking Chhattisgarh’s traditional folk art to the global stage.
Key Highlights
- Born in Ganiyari village (Durg district), Chhattisgarh.
- Learned Pandavani from her maternal grandfather Brajlal Pardha and gave her first public performance at 13 years of age.
- Broke gender barriers by performing in the Kapalika style, traditionally reserved for men.
- Performed in over 17 countries, popularising Indian folk traditions worldwide.
- Received the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan.
About Pandavani
- A traditional folk storytelling and musical art form of Chhattisgarh.
- Narrates episodes from the Mahabharata through singing, narration, acting, and dialogue.
- The performer uses a tanpura (tambura) as both a musical instrument and a symbolic prop.
Two Styles of Pandavani
- Vedamati Style: Performed while sitting, with greater emphasis on narration.
- Kapalika Style: Performed while standing, combining dramatic acting, gestures, expressions, and dialogue.
[2014] A community of people called Manganiyars is well-known for their:
(a) Martial arts in North-East India
(b) Musical tradition in North-West India
(c) Classical vocal music in South India
(d) Pietra dura tradition in Central India.
