Sharda Sinha, the celebrated Bihari folk singer, passed away at the age of 72 on Tuesday night while receiving treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi. Fondly referred to as ‘Bihar Kokila’ by her admirers, Sinha’s death prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the nation. Her unique voice and dedication to the folk traditions of Bihar have left an indelible mark on Indian music and culture.
Bihar’s Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, in his condolence message on X, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Padma Bhushan awardee Sharda Sinha. He remarked on how her melodious voice gave a distinct identity to Maithili, Bhojpuri, Bajjika, and Magahi music. “The Chhath songs sung by her gained a lot of fame. The demise of Bihar Kokila has caused an irreparable loss in the field of culture, especially music. Deep condolences to her family and fans. May God give her a place at His feet. Om Shanti,” he said. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also conveyed his grief, saying her death was “heart-breaking” and had created a void in the cultural landscape of Bihar.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha also paid tribute, stating that Sharda Sinha’s passing represented a significant loss to Bihar’s folk culture and heritage. He emphasized how the great festival of Chhath would now feel incomplete without her songs, which had become a cultural cornerstone. “The entire state of Bihar stands with her family in this hour of grief. We pray to God to give her a place in His feet and give strength to her family to bear this loss,” he shared.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the national tributes, revealing he had been monitoring her health condition closely. In his message on X, he described Sharda Sinha’s music as a connection to the soul of Bihar, particularly through her Chhath songs. Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his condolences, acknowledging her contribution to Indian music over more than five decades. “Sharda Sinha ji, famous as Bihar Kokila, made Maithili and Bhojpuri folk songs popular among the masses,” he wrote. Other leaders, including Delhi’s Chief Minister Atishi, paid homage to Sinha’s lifelong commitment to preserving and promoting Bihar’s rich cultural heritage.
