Padma Bhushan awardee singer Sharda Sinha passes away at 72
Renowned folk singer and Padma Bhushan recipient Sharda Sinha has passed away at age 72 after battling cancer. Hospitalized at AIIMS Delhi since October 25, she succumbed to complications from multiple myeloma and septicemia.
Sharda Sinha, hailed as “Bihar Kokila,” played a vital role in popularizing Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi folk songs. Her Chhath festival songs became iconic, resonating deeply with audiences. Known beyond regional music, she also left a mark in Bollywood with memorable songs in Maine Pyar Kiya, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, and Gangs of Wasseypur.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders expressed deep sorrow. Modi praised her as an enduring voice of the Chhath festival, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah noted her contribution to Indian folk music.
Sinha’s son expressed gratitude for the love shown to his mother, adding that she is now with Chhathi Maiya, the goddess she often celebrated in her music.
Sinha was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 2018, the Padma Shri in 1991, and the Sangeet Natak Akademi award, recognizing her lifelong contributions to Indian music. This loss comes just weeks after her husband’s passing, with whom she celebrated 54 years of marriage earlier this year.
