Pandavani

Narrative style

The performance centers on a lead singer who recounts episodes called prasangs. The artist holds an ektara, often decorated with bells and peacock feathers, to provide the musical foundation. This instrument serves as a prop, transforming into weapons like Bhima's mace or Arjun's bow during the story. The singer uses mimicry and expressive movements to portray different characters without any stage sets. As the tale unfolds, the narrator may break into dance to celebrate victories within the narrative.

Musical accompaniment

Supporting musicians create a rich soundscape behind the main storyteller. Players use instruments such as the harmonium, tabla, dholak, and manjira to establish rhythm and mood. Two or three backing singers join in to sing refrains and offer commentary. They interact with the lead performer by asking questions or providing interjections, which heightens the dramatic tension. This collaborative structure turns a simple narration into a full-fledged ballad that can last for several hours.

Performance traditions

Historically, this art was performed exclusively by men. Since the 1980s, women have also begun to present Pandavani, expanding its reach. Renowned exponents include Teejan Bai and Jhaduram Dewangan. Contemporary artists like Ritu Verma continue the practice. Performers often improvise, adding local words or commenting on current events through the lens of the epic. This flexibility allows each singer to leave a unique stylistic mark on the traditional material.

How Pandavani is kept

A lead singer stands center stage holding a stringed instrument while accompanied by a small ensemble playing drums and reed instruments. Backing vocalists provide rhythmic support and dialogue. The main performer enacts scenes from the Mahabharata, using voice modulation and physical gestures to switch between characters. The audience watches as the story builds in intensity, culminating in impromptu dances or dramatic climaxes.

When and where

Kept during community gatherings and cultural festivals throughout central India.

Strongest in the state of Chhattisgarh, with presence in neighboring areas of Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.

What Pandavani means

The tradition preserves the memory of the Mahabharata for communities where literacy was historically limited. By acting out these stories, performers educate and entertain their audiences, keeping the values and legends of their ancestors alive. The improvisational nature allows the epic to remain relevant to contemporary social contexts.

Questions people ask about Pandavani

See also

PattachitraA cloth scroll painting tradition from eastern India featuring mythological stories and folk tales.DiwaliA five-day festival of lights celebrated across India and its diaspora to mark the victory of light over darkness.MawlidAn annual festival marking the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, marked by poetry, processions and feasts.HoliA spring festival of colours and bonfires that marks the end of winter and the triumph of good over evil.

Good reading and sources

• Three strings and some verveThe Hindu, Article
• Three strings and some verveThe Hindu, Article

• Pandavani on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.