Sharda Sinha, Bihar’s revered folk singer and the voice behind countless iconic Bhojpuri and Maithili songs, passed away at AIIMS Delhi on Tuesday night at the age of 72. Known widely as the “Nightingale of Bihar,” Sinha left a lasting impact on folk music, especially through her songs dedicated to Chhath Puja, a festival close to the hearts of many in Bihar and surrounding regions. Her voice has been synonymous with this festival for decades, adding to the festive spirit and keeping cultural traditions alive.
Final Farewell Before Chhath Puja
Sharda Sinha’s passing was particularly heartfelt, coming just a day before the start of Chhath Puja. She took her last breath shortly after nahaye-khaye, the first day of the festival, making her departure deeply emotional for her followers. Sinha had been battling multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, since 2017, and her health had taken a serious turn in recent weeks. Despite the efforts of doctors, she couldn’t recover and passed away around 9:20 p.m.
Her son, Anshuman Sinha, had shared updates about her deteriorating health, even revealing that she had been moved to ventilator support as her condition worsened. He had asked fans and well-wishers for prayers, hoping for a recovery until the last moment.
A Legacy Beyond Music
Sharda Sinha’s music has been more than just songs; it has been a way for many to connect to their roots. She brought Bhojpuri and Maithili folk music to mainstream audiences and represented Bihar’s rich cultural heritage. Her song “Kahe Tose Sajna” from Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) remains memorable to this day, marking her successful crossover to Bollywood. Through her work, she not only popularized local folk music but also showcased the beauty and simplicity of regional culture to a broader audience.
In recognition of her contributions, Sharda Sinha was honored with the Padma Shri in 1991 and later with the Padma Bhushan in 2018. These prestigious awards are a testament to the influence she wielded, inspiring future generations to appreciate and pursue folk music.
Personal Struggles and Strength
Anshuman shared insights into his mother’s health journey, noting that she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017. Despite her illness, Sinha kept a low profile about her health struggles, continuing to perform and record music. According to her son, Sinha was a private person who believed in focusing on her work rather than discussing her personal challenges. Even as her health declined, she avoided publicizing her illness, wanting to be remembered for her art rather than her struggles.
The loss of her husband marked a particularly challenging period in her life, as it had a profound impact on her health and morale. Anshuman recalled that his mother’s energy seemed to diminish after her husband’s passing, but she continued to dedicate herself to her art, driven by a deep sense of purpose and commitment to her music.
Remembered by Fans and Fellow Artists
The news of Sharda Sinha’s passing has left a void in the hearts of her fans and peers. Dinesh Lal Yadav, known as Nirahua, and singer Malini Awasthi, along with many others, expressed their grief and acknowledged her contribution to the world of folk music. Her songs have been a source of comfort, nostalgia, and joy, particularly during Chhath Puja, when her voice resonates along the ghats of rivers, bringing people together in celebration and reverence.
Her family has appealed to her admirers to remember her for the joy and pride she brought to Bihar and to support their endeavors to keep her legacy alive. Anshuman encouraged fans to hold onto her memory through her songs and continue celebrating her contributions to folk music.
A Cultural Icon for Generations to Come
While Sharda Sinha is no longer with us, her voice remains a part of every Bihar household, especially during festivals like Chhath Puja. Her songs, rich in tradition and cultural essence, are more than melodies—they represent an emotional connection with the homeland for millions.
Sinha’s contributions have inspired countless young singers, especially those from rural backgrounds who dream of pursuing music. Her dedication to folk music has ensured that Bihar’s unique cultural heritage remains celebrated and respected across the country.
In the coming days, as families across Bihar gather for Chhath Puja, her songs will play on, carrying her spirit and legacy forward. Sharda Sinha may be gone, but the Nightingale of Bihar will forever live on through her music, touching hearts and keeping the soul of Bhojpuri and Maithili traditions alive.
