Bihar's renowned folk singer Sharda Sinha died at the age of 72 on Tuesday night. Known for her Chhath songs, Sinha was admitted to AIIMS Hospital in Delhi, where she was undergoing treatment for cancer for the past several days. After her condition deteriorated, she was shifted to a ventilator on November 4. However, she passed away at 9.20 pm on November 5 after suffering refractory shock as a result of septicemia.
The news was confirmed by her son, Anshuman Sinha, who had been sharing updates on her health on social media.
"Your prayers and love will always remain with my mother. Chhathi Maiya has called her to herself. She is no longer with us in physical form," he wrote on X in a post in Hindi.
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Issues Statement
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar issues a statement on the demise of noted folk singer Sharda Sinha. He expressed deep sorrow over the acclaimed singer's death and that her passing marks an irreparable loss to the music world.
"Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Sharda Sinha, known as the "Bihar Kokila" (Nightingale of Bihar), and recipient of the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards. In his message of condolence, the Chief Minister said that Sharda Sinha was an acclaimed folk singer who contributed significantly to the genres of Maithili, Bajjika, Bhojpuri, and Hindi music. She also lent her melodious voice to several Hindi films. Recognizing her contributions to the music world, the Government of India honored her with the Padma Shri in 1991 and the Padma Bhushan in 2018," a statement issued by the CMO's office read.
"Sinha’s melodious Chhath festival songs echoed across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and other parts of the country. Her passing marks an irreparable loss to the music world. The Chief Minister prayed for the departed soul's eternal peace and for strength for her family, admirers, and followers to bear this sorrowful moment," the statement further noted.
Giriraj Singh Expresses Condolences
Minister of Textiles and BJP MP Giriraj Singh mourned Sinha's death saying, "The soulful singer of our culture, Sharda Sinha, who graced the Chhath festival with her melodious voice, is no longer with us. Her contributions to our folk culture are invaluable, and her voice will continue to live on in every faith and festival."
"May God grant peace to her soul and provide strength to her family in this difficult time. Sharda Ji, your memories and songs will always remain in our hearts. Tribute," he said in a post on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been monitoring Sinha's condition and stayed in touch with the doctors at AIIMS. Earlier today, Sinha's son Anshuman had also shared that PM Modi had personally assured him of full support for his mother's treatment.
Rajnath Singh Condoles Sharda Sinha's Death
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh offered condolences over the singer's death. In a post on X, Singh wrote: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mrs. Sharda Sinha. She was a versatile folk singer whose remarkable talent brought Bhojpuri music to the hearts of many. Her songs will be cherished for generations to come. Her loss is a profound one for the world of folk music, which has lost an impactful voice. In this moment of sorrow, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her grieving family and her admirers. Om Shanti."
Sinha's last pre-recorded song, Dukhwa Mitayin Chhathi Maiya, was released on November 4, ahead of Chhath 2024.
Some of her most popular songs are Kelwa Ke Paat Par Ugalan Suraj Mal Jhake Jhuke, Ho Dinanath, Hey Chhathi Maiya, Bahangi Lachakat Jaaye, Suna Chhathi Maai, Roje Roje Ugelaa, Patna Ke Ghat Par, and Jode Jode Supawa. She was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2018.