Sharda Sinha, folk singer and Padma Bhushan recipient, passes away at 72

Sharda Sinha passed away on November 5 at the age of 72.

Renowned folk artist Sharda Sinha, best known for her moving performances during the Chhath festival, has passed away at 72 at AIIMS in New Delhi. She was battling multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, since 2018. Her health deteriorated on Monday, and she was subsequently placed on a ventilator.

Early life

Sharda was born on October 1, 1952 in Hulas, Supaul district, Bihar. Popularly known as 'Bihar Kokila', the cuckoo of Bihar, Sharda began her musical journey by singing Maithili folk songs. At the Basant Mahotsava, organized by Prayag Sangeet Samiti in Allahabad, she captivated audiences with folk songs celebrating the arrival of spring. Sharda Sinha has also been a prominent performer during Chhath Puja, where her songs have become an integral part of the celebrations.

Music Career

Known for singing in Bhojpuri, Maithili, Magahi, and Hindi, her songs reached diverse audiences while remaining deeply rooted in the traditions of her home state.

Celebrated as a cultural icon of Bihar, she was best known for her Chhath geet, devotional songs dedicated to the Chhath Puja festival, which honor the Sun God and are essential to the celebration. Songs like Pahile Pahil Chhathi Maiya, Ho Deenanath, Ho Dinanath, Bahangi Lachakat Jaaye, Jode Jode Supawa and Kelwa Ke Paat Par are traditional anthems during the Chhath festival, deeply cherished by devotees.

Among Sharda Sinha's popular Chhath songs cherished by listeners are Bahangi Lachakat Jaaye, Roje Roje Ugelaa, and Suna Chhathi Maai, along with several other well-loved tracks that resonate deeply with her audience.

Sharad Sinha, whose career took off in the 1970s, is also renowned for her contributions in Bollywood. Songs like "Babool" from Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, "Kahe Toh Se Sajna" from Maine Pyaar Kiya, and "Taar Bijli" from Gangs of Wasseypur brought her not only nationwide fame but also critical acclaim, establishing her as an enduring figure in Indian music.

Sharda Sinha’s final album dedicated to Chhath, titled Arag, featured eight songs. Throughout her career, she recorded a total of 62 Chhath songs across nine albums, released by music labels like T-Series, HMV, and Tips. Her work in preserving and popularizing regional folk traditions has earned her immense respect.

Personal Life

Sharda was married to Braj Kishore Sinha, who unfortunately passed away recently in September due to brain haemorrhage. They have two children- daughter Vandana and son Anshuman Sinha.

Awards

In recognition of her lasting impact, Sharda Sinha was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2018. Her achievements also include a National Film Award, solidifying her position as a treasured voice in regional music and cinema.