Iconic Folk Singer Sharda Sinha Passes Away, Leaving an Unforgettable Legacy in Indian Music
On Tuesday, legendary folk singer Sharda Sinha, affectionately known as the “Nightingale of Bihar,” passed away at the age of 72 at AIIMS Hospital in Delhi. Her health had suddenly deteriorated on Monday, leading to her being placed on a ventilator, where she later took her final breath. Sinha’s passing, coming just before the cherished Chhath festival, has left her fans and admirers in deep mourning across the country.
Sharda Sinha was widely celebrated for her soulful renditions of traditional Chhath songs, which have become an integral part of the festival. In addition to her contributions to folk music, she also made her mark in Bollywood. Among her most popular Bollywood songs was “Taar Bijli” from the movie Gangs of Wasseypur 2, a song that continues to be a favorite at weddings and celebrations to this day. Despite her extensive experience, Sinha had revealed in a past interview that she was initially nervous about singing the bold lyrics of this song. Director Anurag Kashyap and composer Sneha Khanwalkar had approached her with the track, which blended folk music with modern tones, an experimental style that Sinha was hesitant to embrace at first. However, the song’s success ultimately reaffirmed her artistic range and brought her widespread acclaim.
Sharda Sinha’s passion for music began with classical training, which she later channeled into folk music, a decision that defined her career and brought folk music into the limelight. Her voice graced numerous Bhojpuri and Hindi film songs, creating a legacy that is cherished by millions. She was honored with prestigious awards such as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Padma Shri, and the “Bihar Kokila” title in recognition of her contributions to Indian music.
Her final rites will be conducted with state honors in Patna on Wednesday, a fitting tribute to a singer who became a voice of tradition and culture for Bihar and beyond. Sinha’s demise follows the recent loss of her husband, who passed away due to a brain hemorrhage, a period that deeply impacted her health. Despite these challenges, her dedication to music and her lasting impact will continue to inspire generations to come.
