Who was singer Sharda Sinha? PM Modi remembers 'Kokila of Bihar' on first death anniversary

Late singer Sharda Sinha awarded Padma Vibhushan (File photo)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday remembered the late Sharda Sinha on her first death anniversary, saying, “On the first death anniversary of Bihar Kokila Sharda Sinha ji, heartfelt tribute to her. She gave a new identity to Bihar’s art and culture through folk songs, for which she will always be remembered.” He added, “Her melodious songs associated with the great festival Chhath will forever remain etched in the hearts of the people.” Notably, last year she passed away on the day of 'Kharna' -- the first day of the four-day Chhath mahaparv.

Born in 1952 in Supaul district, Sharda Sinha’s voice became the sound of Bihar’s soil -- a voice that resonated with its festivals, faith, and people. Singing mainly in Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi, she devoted her life to the preservation and celebration of her homeland’s folk heritage. It was this devotion that earned her the affectionate title “Kokila of Bihar.”

Her contribution to Indian music extended beyond the borders of folk tradition. Through her songs for Chhath Puja -- “Uga Ho Suruj Dev” and “Pahile Pahile Pooja Karu Ae Suruj Dev” -- she became the unifying sound of devotion for millions. These melodies continue to echo in every celebration of the festival, both in Bihar and among its diaspora, embodying nostalgia and reverence.

Sharda Sinha’s music gave voice to Bihar’s emotional and cultural landscape -- from wedding songs filled with affection to hymns of devotion. Her songs in popular Hindi films such as Maine Pyar Kiya and Hum Aapke Hain Koun brought the warmth and authenticity of Bihar’s folk idioms to mainstream Indian audiences.

At a time when Bollywood and classical forms ruled the charts, she remained steadfast in her belief that folk traditions carried their own elegance and power. Her voice -- humble, pure, and deeply rooted -- brought dignity and national recognition to Bihar’s cultural legacy.

Honoured with the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and posthumously the Padma Vibhushan, her accolades speak not only of her musical excellence but also of her role as a guardian of folk identity. For Bihar, Sharda Sinha was not just a singer; she was an emblem of pride, a bridge between rural and urban worlds, between the old and the new.

Every dawn of Chhath that plays her songs reminds listeners of her enduring presence -- that through her melodies, the heart of Bihar continues to sing.