Folk icon Sharda Sinha, voice of Chhath, passes away at 72, last rites in Patna

Beloved folk singer Sharda Sinha, renowned as the “Bihar Kokila” and the voice of Chhath Puja, passed away on Tuesday night at 9:20 pm, November 5, 2024 , at AIIMS-Delhi. She was 72. Sinha, who had been battling multiple myeloma since 2017, succumbed to refractory shock from septicemia, according to hospital officials. She had been on ventilator support at AIIMS' cancer institute since October.

Also read: Renowned folk singer Sharda Sinha on ventilator, PM Modi closely monitoring condition

Born in Supaul, Bihar, Sinha’s music celebrated the earthy, heartfelt traditions of Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi cultures. Her voice brought to life popular folk songs such as “Kartik Maas Ijoriya” and “Koyal Bin” and reached a broader audience through Bollywood numbers like "Taar Bijli" in Gangs of Wasseypur-II and "Babul" in Hum Aapke Hain Koun. Dubbed the “Begum Akhtar of Mithila,” Sinha’s artistry resonated deeply with millions, particularly during the Chhath festival, a sacred event in eastern India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute, calling her loss "an irreparable void in the music world." Her passing, coinciding with the start of Chhath Puja—a festival she symbolized—struck a bittersweet chord. Known for releasing songs during Chhath each year, she managed to release one this year despite her declining health.

Her funeral will be held in Patna, near her husband’s final resting place. Sinha’s legacy continues through her son, Anshuman, who manages the Sharda Sinha Art & Culture Foundation in her honour.