Pandvani
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A Chhattisgarhi ballad tradition in which a single performer sings and acts stories of the Pandavas from the Mahabharata.
Folk theatreWhere: ChhattisgarhOccasion: Village gatherings, fairs and stage performances
| Performed by | A lead singer-narrator, with a chorus and accompanists; both men and women perform |
|---|---|
| Costume | Traditional dress; the lead performer holds a tambura decorated with peacock feathers and bells |
| Music and instruments | Tambura, harmonium, tabla, dholak and manjira |
How it is performed
- The accompanists sit behind the lead performer, who stands with the tambura.
- The performer sings and narrates an episode from the Mahabharata, often centred on Bhima.
- The tambura is used as a prop: it becomes Bhima’s mace, a bow or a chariot.
- A ragi (assistant) answers the performer and keeps the story moving with questions and comments.
- The performer acts out the characters with voice, face and movement, building to the climax of the episode.
Significance
Pandvani has two styles, Vedamati and Kapalik. The singer Teejan Bai brought it to audiences around the world and has received the Padma Vibhushan.