Sharda Sinha, The Voice Of Chhath Puja Songs, Dies At 72; Tributes Pour In

Renowned folk singer Sharda Sinha, beloved for her heartfelt renditions that have graced many Chhath festivals, sadly passed away at the age of 72. She succumbed to her illness at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. The hospital confirmed her death on Tuesday night, attributing it to refractory shock caused by septicemia. Sinha had been struggling with her health for some days, requiring ventilator support towards the end.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had shown concern for Sinha's health earlier that day, personally reaching out to her family. He assured them of his support and offered assistance for the singer's treatment. This gesture highlighted the widespread respect and admiration for Sinha, not just among her fans but also at the highest levels of government.

Sinha's battle with health issues began in earnest in 2018 when she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. Her condition took a turn for the worse on Monday, necessitating her placement on a ventilator. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she was declared "hemodynamically stable but under constant monitoring," a sign of the severity of her condition.

Her son, Anshuman Sinha, had been actively sharing updates about his mother's health situation. Through social media and media engagements, he kept her fans and well-wishers informed. The news of her deteriorating health had caused great concern among those who cherished her music and the cultural heritage she represented.

Sharda Sinha's voice has been an integral part of the Chhath festival, celebrated extensively in Bihar and other North Indian regions. Her songs and music have not only entertained but also preserved the rich folk traditions of Bihar, earning her the title of a cultural ambassador. Sinha's career took off in the 1970s, and she quickly became a national treasure with her contributions to Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Hindi folk music.

Among her many achievements, Sinha was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2018, India's third-highest civilian award, acknowledging her immense contribution to the arts. This recognition, along with a National Film Award, solidifies her legacy as a pivotal figure in regional music and cinema. Her song 'Babool' from the movie 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!' is just one example of her talent, bringing her both fame and critical acclaim.

Sinha is cherished for her timeless folk songs, including "Kartik Maas Ijoriya" and "Koyal Bin," as well as her Bollywood tracks like "Taar Bijli" from Gangs of Wasseypur II and "Babul" from Hum Aapke Hain Koun.

The passing of Sharda Sinha marks the end of an era in folk music. Her contributions to the cultural landscape of India, particularly through her iconic Chhath geet, will forever be remembered. As fans and the nation mourn her loss, her music continues to live on, a testament to her remarkable life and career.

PM Modi wrote,''I am deeply saddened by the passing of renowned folk singer Sharda Sinha ji. Her Maithili and Bhojpuri folk songs have been beloved for several decades. The echoes of her melodious songs, especially those associated with the great festival of faith, Chhath, will always resonate. Her demise is an irreparable loss to the music world. My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and fans during this difficult time. Om Shanti!.''

Bihar CM Nitish Kumar issued a statement on the demise of noted folk singer Sharda Sinha.

On the demise of noted folk singer, Sharda Sinha, Bihar DCM Vijay Sinha says, "The passing of 'Swar Kokila' of Bihar is an irreparable loss to folk culture and heritage of Bihar. The festival of Chhath Puja is incomplete without the songs of Sharda Sinha...The festival of Chhath Puja got a new identity with the songs of Sharda Sinha...May her soul rest in peace..."