The state government has taken several significant decisions to cherish the memory of the late Dr. Teejan Bai—the legendary Pandwani folk singer who brought global recognition to Chhattisgarh’s folk culture. Speaking at a tribute ceremony in Raipur, Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal stated that Dr. Teejan Bai’s contribution constitutes a cultural treasure not just for Chhattisgarh but for the entire nation, and the government is taking concrete steps to preserve her legacy.
The government has announced that artists making remarkable contributions to the field of Pandwani will henceforth be honored annually with the ‘Dr. Teejan Bai State Award’ (Dr. Teejan Bai Rajya Alankaran Samman). The objective is to encourage artists of the new generation alongside preserving this folk art form. On this occasion, the Culture Minister also provided financial assistance of one lakh rupees to Dr. Teejan Bai’s family. He affirmed that the government is fully committed to the welfare of artists and the preservation of their cultural heritage.
Dr. Teejan Bai’s ancestral village, Ganiyari, will be developed into a ‘Kalagram’ (Art Village). Activities related to folk art, Pandwani, and traditional culture will be promoted there to transform the location into a major hub for art and culture. Furthermore, the historic Tambura—an integral part of Dr. Teejan Bai’s performances—will now be preserved at the Mahant Ghasidas Memorial Museum in Raipur. It will be put on public display, offering people an opportunity to gain a closer understanding of her art and life journey.
Speakers at the event noted that Dr. Teejan Bai elevated Pandwani to the international stage through her unique singing and performance style. These initiatives by the state government will not only preserve her memory but also serve as a vital means of connecting future generations with their folk culture and traditions.
