Singer Sharda Sinha Passes Away at 72, Remembered as a Cultural Icon
Renowned for her contributions to Indian folk music, Padma Bhushan recipient Sharda Sinha has passed away at the age of 72. The beloved singer was undergoing cancer treatment at AIIMS in Delhi, where she was admitted to the oncology department on October 25. Sinha had battled multiple myeloma, a type of bone marrow cancer, since her diagnosis in 2017. On ventilator support due to septicemia and ultimately succumbing to refractory shock, her passing has left a void in India’s music community and among fans of folk traditions.
Her son expressed gratitude to all well-wishers, sharing that his mother’s spirit and legacy would continue through the love and prayers she received from many. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his condolences, noting the cultural significance of her Chhath festival songs, which have been an enduring part of India’s musical landscape. “The echoes of her melodious songs associated with the great festival of faith, Chhath, will always remain,” he reflected, describing her passing as an irreplaceable loss to the music world.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh remembered her as a multi-talented figure who popularized Bhojpuri folk music among the masses. He praised her contributions to the musical landscape, underscoring her influence in making folk music accessible and cherished by a broader audience. In his statement, he expressed grief for her family and devoted fans, emphasizing the unique place she held in India’s cultural heritage.
Home Minister Amit Shah echoed similar sentiments, stating that Sinha’s voice had enriched Indian music for more than five decades. Known as the “Bihar Kokila,” she brought Maithili and Bhojpuri folk songs to the forefront, captivating listeners across generations. Her ability to capture the heart of the nation through her music has made her a beloved icon, and her contributions to Bollywood as a playback singer further expanded her influence and legacy.
In her final days, Prime Minister Modi kept a close watch on Sinha’s health status. Union Health Minister JP Nadda also visited AIIMS recently, meeting with senior health officials to ensure she received the highest level of medical care. Nadda reportedly spoke with Sinha’s son, Anshuman, expressing concern and support for the family during this challenging time.
Sharda Sinha’s contributions to Indian folk music are profound. Hailing from Bihar, she performed primarily in Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi, capturing the essence of these regional languages and the cultural heritage they represent. Her music has become synonymous with the Chhath festival, with her songs played widely during this period as an emblem of devotion and celebration. Beyond the regional folk scene, she also made her mark in Bollywood, performing popular songs in Hindi films like *Maine Pyar Kiya* and *Hum Aapke Hain Kaun*. In *Gangs of Wasseypur*, the track “Taar Bijli” became a hit, adding to her legacy as an artist who could bridge traditional and modern audiences.
Sinha was honored with numerous awards over her lifetime. The Indian government recognized her contributions with the Padma Shri in 1991 and later the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award. She also received the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, underscoring her stature as a respected and cherished figure in the arts. These accolades reflect her lasting impact on Indian music and her success in bringing the beauty of folk traditions to a larger, more diverse audience.
In her personal life, Sinha recently faced another heartbreaking loss with the passing of her husband, Braj Kishore Sinha, who died a few weeks ago following a brain hemorrhage caused by a fall. The couple, who had celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary earlier this year, shared a bond that further endears her to fans, who empathize with her recent challenges and now mourn her passing.
Sharda Sinha’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian folk music, yet her songs and the joy they have brought to millions will endure. Her legacy extends beyond her unique voice; she has immortalized the spirit of India’s folk traditions and the cultural richness of Bihar in particular. As India mourns her loss, her music will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who celebrate her contributions to folk music and the arts.