Sharda Sinha, one of Bihar’s most beloved folk singers, has passed away at the age of 70. Known as the “Bihar Kokila” (the Nightingale of Bihar), Sinha’s death has left an indelible mark on the world of Indian folk music. Her demise was confirmed by the Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, who announced that the late singer would be honored with state funeral rites.
Sinha’s contribution to Bihari and Indian folk music is immeasurable. Over a career spanning several decades, she became a household name, particularly for her renditions of Maithili and Bhojpuri folk songs. Her songs were known for their lyrical beauty, emotional depth, and cultural richness, which resonated deeply with people from all walks of life. Sharda Sinha’s voice was synonymous with the cultural ethos of Bihar, and her performances captivated audiences across India.
Born in 1954 in the village of Lakhisarai, Bihar, Sinha developed an early interest in music. Trained in classical music under the tutelage of various maestros, she made her first public appearance in the 1970s and quickly rose to fame. Her deep, melodious voice and mastery of traditional folk genres earned her a dedicated following. Throughout her career, she worked with numerous radio and television channels, as well as major music platforms, helping popularize Bihari folk music globally.
Her contributions were not only limited to music. Sinha was also known for her role in the preservation of the Maithili and Bhojpuri languages through her art. Many of her songs reflected the rural life and the simple joys of the people of Bihar. Through her work, she helped elevate the status of regional music and brought it into the mainstream.
Sharda Sinha was particularly known for her festive songs, including those associated with the Chhath Puja, one of Bihar’s most important cultural and religious festivals. Her Chhath songs became anthems for the festival, played in households across the state and beyond. These songs celebrated the themes of devotion, nature, and the divine, and they have continued to inspire generations.
Her voice was also featured in various films and television series, where her songs became integral to the storytelling, particularly in Hindi and regional cinema. The success of her music transcended regional borders, making her an iconic figure in India’s music history. Sinha’s ability to weave rich cultural narratives through her music touched the hearts of millions.
In addition to her musical achievements, Sinha’s work in promoting social causes also deserves recognition. She used her platform to highlight issues such as women’s empowerment, rural development, and the preservation of traditional art forms. Her unwavering commitment to her roots made her a true ambassador of Bihar’s culture.
As news of her death spread, tributes poured in from all over India. Fans, fellow musicians, and cultural leaders mourned her passing, with many praising her immense contribution to Indian music and culture. Bihar’s Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, announced that her mortal remains would be taken to Patna, where her funeral would be conducted with full state honors, paying tribute to her legacy.
Sharda Sinha’s death marks the end of an era in Indian folk music. However, her influence will undoubtedly live on in the songs she left behind. As Bihar and the music world bid farewell to one of their brightest stars, her voice will continue to echo through the hearts of millions, reminding them of the beauty of regional art and the power of folk music to transcend time and place.
