Entertainment: The music world mourns the loss of legendary folk singer Sharda Sinha, lovingly known as the ‘Bihar Kokila,’ who passed away on Tuesday night at AIIMS, Delhi. She was 72. Medical reports confirm that the celebrated artist succumbed to refractory shock brought on by septicaemia at approximately 9:20 p.m.
Sinha, who had been battling multiple myeloma, a severe form of blood cancer, since 2018, saw her health deteriorate sharply on Monday, requiring her to be placed on ventilator support. Her passing marks a poignant end to a career that spanned over five decades, during which she became a defining voice in Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Hindi folk music, especially associated with the Chhath festival.
Launching her career in the 1970s, Sinha’s life was dedicated to preserving and popularizing folk music, elevating traditional songs from Bihar to national prominence. Her soulful renditions brought India’s rich folk heritage into the spotlight, resonating deeply with listeners across generations. Her voice reached even wider audiences when her emotive song “Babool” featured in the popular Bollywood film Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, a performance that showcased her talent to millions.
Honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2018 for her contributions to Indian music, Sinha was celebrated as a cultural ambassador for Bihar, representing the soul of her state with pride. Her timeless ‘Chhath geet’ songs, deeply interwoven with the traditions of the Chhath festival, remain cherished across North India, forming an inseparable part of the festival’s celebration.
In Bihar and beyond, tributes are pouring in, honoring Sinha’s profound impact on Indian folk music and her role as a bridge between regional culture and the nation’s musical landscape. Though she is no longer with us, her music endures as a legacy, a heartfelt reminder of her dedication to India’s cultural heritage and her passion for folk traditions.