Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned the death of celebrated Pandwani vocalist Teejan Bai, who passed away at a Raipur hospital following a prolonged illness, describing her as an irreplaceable figure in arts and culture. The 70-year-old folk artist, recognized with India's highest civilian honors including the Padma Vibhushan, died of complications from a lung infection and other ailments. She was renowned for transforming Pandwani—a traditional Chhattisgarhi performance style that dramatically narrates tales from the Mahabharata—into a globally recognized art form. Modi’s tribute, posted on social media, highlighted her role in bringing this regional folk tradition to international audiences and offered condolences to her family and supporters.