2024-11-06 12:31:27 :
November 6, 2024: Bihar is in mourning as the much-loved folk singer Sharda Sinha passed away in New Delhi on the evening of November 5. The renowned artist who was fondly called the ‘Bihar Kokila’ (Cuckoo of Bihar) passed away due to refractory shock following severe sepsis. She had been undergoing treatment at the AIIMS Delhi oncology department, battling multiple myeloma, a blood cancer, which had been affecting her health since 2018.
Also Read: Famous folk singer Sharda Sinha dies at 72 after battling cancer
Sharda Sinha’s death happened on the first day of the Chhath Puja festival, adding to the grief of her fans as she was known for her iconic songs associated with Chhath, the most important festival in Bihar one of the festivals. Her music has become synonymous with Chhath Mahaparv and her voice echoes in homes during the sacred rituals of this festival, making her an integral part of Bihari cultural identity.
To commemorate her immense contribution to folk music, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced that Sharda Sinha’s last rites will be performed with state honours. The tributes paid by the state reflect the deep respect and love felt by the people of Bihar for her. Her family also expressed their sadness, and her son, Anshuman Sinharevealed that the last rites would be held in Patna, at the same place where his father had his last rites performed, marking a deeply personal and emotional moment for the family.
Sharda Sinha has left a profound legacy in the field of Bhojpuri, Maithili and Hindi folk music. Her soulful voice captures the essence of the region’s heritage and her songs continue to resonate with the people of Bihar and beyond. She is not only a performer but also a cultural ambassador, bringing the folk music of Bihar to a wide audience at home and abroad.
Sharda Sinha’s death is not only a personal loss to her family, but also to the wider music community. Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party Tiwari The Prime Minister expressed his deep condolences for the loss, calling it “irreparable” and recalling personal memories with the late singer. Narendra Modi leads a national tribute in recognition of her valuable contribution to the Indian folk music landscape. He also praised her deep association with the Chhath Music Festival, saying it reflected her rich cultural heritage and her ability to touch hearts with her melodies.
Other political leaders, including Congress President Malikajun Haq and Rahul GandhiCondolences were also expressed, acknowledging her as an irreplaceable figure in the cultural history of Bihar.
Sharda Sinha’s music is a beacon of hope and cultural pride for the people of Bihar. Her songs, especially those dedicated to the festival of Chhath, will live on and continue to inspire future generations with their deep emotional resonance. Her legacy is marked by the fact that she was not only a renowned artist but also a symbol of the rich culture of Bihar, a state where folk music holds immense significance. Her death marked the end of an era in Bihar’s folk music tradition, but her melodious legacy will always echo in the hearts of her admirers.
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