November 6, 2024: The state of Bihar is in mourning following the passing of its beloved folk singer, Sharda Sinha, on the evening of November 5 in New Delhi. The renowned artist, affectionately known as the “Bihar Kokila” (the Cuckoo of Bihar), passed away due to refractory shock, following a severe case of septicaemia. She had been under treatment at AIIMS Delhi’s oncology department, battling multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, which had affected her health since 2018.
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Sharda Sinha’s death, which occurred on the first day of the Chhath Puja festival, adds to the poignancy of the loss for her fans, as she was particularly famous for her iconic songs related to Chhath, one of Bihar’s most significant festivals. Her music had become synonymous with the Chhath Mahaparv, and her voice echoed through homes during the sacred rituals of this festival, making her an integral part of Bihari cultural identity.
In honor of her immense contributions to folk music, Bihar’s Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced that Sharda Sinha’s last rites would be conducted with full state honors. The state’s tributes reflect the deep respect and affection the people of Bihar held for her. Her family, too, expressed their sorrow, with her son, Anshuman Sinha, revealing that the last rites would take place in Patna, at the same location where his father’s final rites were performed, making it a deeply personal and emotional moment for the family.
Sharda Sinha’s legacy in the world of Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Hindi folk music is profound. Her soulful voice captured the essence of the region’s traditions, and her songs continue to resonate with the people of Bihar and beyond. She was not just a performer but a cultural ambassador, taking the folk music of Bihar to audiences far and wide, both nationally and internationally.
Sharda Sinha’s passing is not only a personal loss to her family but to the broader musical community. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari expressed his deep sorrow over the loss, describing it as “irreparable” and recalling personal memories with the late singer, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi led national tributes, acknowledging her invaluable contribution to the folk music landscape of India. He also praised her deep connection to the Chhath festival, calling it a reflection of her rich cultural heritage and her ability to touch hearts with her melodies.
Other political leaders, including Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, also expressed their condolences, recognizing her as an irreplaceable figure in Bihar’s cultural history.
Sharda Sinha’s music was a beacon of hope and cultural pride for the people of Bihar. Her songs, particularly those dedicated to the Chhath festival, will live on, continuing to inspire future generations with their deep emotional resonance. Her legacy is marked by the fact that she was not only a celebrated artist but also an emblem of the cultural richness of Bihar, a state where folk music holds immense significance. Her passing marks the end of an era for the folk music tradition of Bihar, but her melodious legacy will forever echo in the hearts of her admirers.
