Padma Bhushan Teejan Bai: The Eternal Voice of Pandavani
By Vilas Janve
The news of the passing of Padma Bhushan Dr. Teejan Bai deeply saddened me. It felt as though Indian folk culture had lost one of its brightest stars. She was not merely a performer of Pandavani; she was its living soul. Through her extraordinary voice, powerful acting, and unmatched storytelling, she transformed the ancient tales of the Mahabharata into unforgettable experiences for audiences across the world.
Teejan Bai devoted her entire life to preserving and promoting the centuries-old tradition of Pandavani. Her commanding voice, expressive performances, exceptional singing, and rare ability to captivate audiences earned her immense respect and admiration. She mastered the Kapalik style of Pandavani, presenting episodes from the Mahabharata with remarkable intensity and emotion.
One of the most fascinating aspects of her performances was her peacock-feather-adorned tambura. In her hands, it became whatever the story demanded—a mace, a bow and arrow, a plough, an axe, or a sword. Like a consummate actor, she brought every character to life on stage. Her ability to weave contemporary references into ancient stories made audiences laugh one moment and move them to tears the next. Through her performances, she effortlessly traversed the emotions of heroism, compassion, humour, wonder, anger, fear, and devotion before finally leaving the audience in a state of serenity. Even her graceful gesture of greeting the audience at the end of every performance reflected her warmth and humility.
Teejan Bai visited Shilpgram Utsav in Udaipur on several occasions, performing under the auspices of the West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC). Each visit left audiences spellbound and reaffirmed her stature as one of India's greatest folk artists.
During my tenure as Programme Officer at the West Zone Cultural Centre, Udaipur, I also had the privilege of serving as the compere for many prestigious cultural events. I always believed that introducing an artist required much more than reading a biography. Before every performance, I would spend time with the artist, learning about their life, philosophy, artistic journey, and creative process. This preparation allowed me to present meaningful introductions that connected audiences with the performers before they even stepped onto the stage.
I was fortunate to interact closely with Teejan Bai on several occasions. I became an ardent admirer not only of her singing and acting but also of her extraordinary gift for making every listener a participant in her storytelling. Throughout my career, I introduced numerous distinguished folk and classical artists, but introducing Padma Bhushan Dr. Teejan Bai remains one of my most cherished memories.
After presenting the background of Pandavani and acknowledging her accompanying musicians, I would conclude by saying, "Please join me in welcoming Padma Bhushan Dr. Teejan Bai." As the music began and she strode onto the stage with the confidence and energy of a warrior, the entire atmosphere transformed. The audience erupted in applause, and within moments, they were transported into the world of the Mahabharata. Listening to her narrate those timeless stories was nothing short of a blessing.
Over the years, I had the privilege of witnessing her performances at Shilpgram Utsav in Udaipur, Basant Utsav in Gandhinagar, Lokotsav in Goa, Delhi, and Mumbai. Every performance carried the same passion, authenticity, and spiritual depth. She never merely narrated a story; she made history breathe before the audience's eyes.
Among my most treasured memories is an unforgettable evening at the University of Mumbai's Kalina campus, where I had the rare privilege of listening to her perform the episode of Karna in the august presence of Sangeet Martand Padma Bhushan Pandit Jasraj. Her portrayal of Karna's dignity, anguish, and sacrifice was so deeply moving that even Pandit Jasraj was visibly emotional. Watching these two legendary artists express mutual admiration and gratitude after the performance was a profoundly touching experience. I, too, found myself overwhelmed with emotion.
Today, both of these towering cultural icons are no longer with us. Yet their artistry, humility, and devotion to Indian culture continue to inspire generations. Their memories remain indelibly etched in my heart.
For me, Teejan Bai was far more than an accomplished folk artist. She was a living institution, a guardian of India's oral traditions, and a symbol of unwavering dedication to cultural heritage. Every interaction with her deepened my appreciation of folk art and reaffirmed my belief that true artistry lies in touching the human soul.
Though Teejan Bai has departed from this world, her resonant voice, her iconic tambura, and her unforgettable performances will continue to echo through the cultural landscape of India. Future generations will remember her not only as the greatest exponent of Pandavani but as one of the finest storytellers our nation has ever produced.
My heartfelt tribute to an immortal legend whose art will continue to illuminate India's cultural heritage forever.
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