Bihar Kokila Sharda Sinha Death: PM Modi Remembers Iconic Singer Of 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun'

The eminent folk singer Sharda Sinha, affection known as Bihar Kokila, sadly passed away on Tuesday night after a battle with illness. At the age of 72, she was being treated at AIIMS Delhi where she succumbed to refractory shock resulting from septicemia. Sinha, who had been fighting multiple myeloma since 2017, left a significant void in the world of music with her departure. An official from AIIMS confirmed her passing, stating she died at 9.20 pm.

Sharda Sinha was not just a singer; she was a cultural icon synonymous with the vibrant folk traditions of Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Maghahi languages. Awarded the prestigious Padma Bhushan, her voice carried the essence of Bihar and parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, bringing joy and spiritual solace to many through her songs. She was particularly celebrated for her renditions associated with Chhath Puja and weddings. Among her most beloved tracks were "Chhathi Maiya Aayi Na Duaariya" and "Kartik Maas Ijoriya," which have become anthems in their own right during festive occasions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Sinha, highlighting her invaluable contribution to Indian folk music. He expressed his sorrow over her demise, recognizing her songs' popularity and their association with the festival of Chhath. "I am deeply saddened by the demise of renowned folk singer Sharda Sinha ji. Her Maithili and Bhojpuri folk songs have been very popular for the last several decades. The echo of her melodious songs associated with the great festival of faith, Chhath, will always remain. Her demise is an irreparable loss for the music world. My condolences are with her family and fans in this hour of grief. Om Shanti," PM Modi tweeted.

सुप्रसिद्ध लोक गायिका शारदा सिन्हा जी के निधन से अत्यंत दुख हुआ है। उनके गाए मैथिली और भोजपुरी के लोकगीत पिछले कई दशकों से बेहद लोकप्रिय रहे हैं। आस्था के महापर्व छठ से जुड़े उनके सुमधुर गीतों की गूंज भी सदैव बनी रहेगी। उनका जाना संगीत जगत के लिए एक अपूरणीय क्षति है। शोक की इस… pic.twitter.com/sOaLvUOnrW

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 5, 2024

Sinha's unique talent also shone through in Bollywood, where she lent her voice to memorable tracks like "Taar Bijli" from "Gangs of Wasseypur- II" and "Babul" from "Hum Aapke Hain Koun". Her ability to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary music made her a revered figure not just in Bihar but across the nation. Besides, her contributions to cinema, particularly her songs in the film "Maine Pyar Kiya," showcased her versatility as a vocalist.

The news of her illness and subsequent admission to the intensive care unit of Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital (IRCH) at AIIMS last month had concerned fans and well-wishers. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, Sinha's condition worsened, leading to her passing. Her battle with multiple myeloma, a challenging form of blood cancer, underscored her resilience and the love she had for her art, continuing to inspire even in her final days.

As the music world mourns the loss of Sharda Sinha, her legacy endures through her songs, which continue to resonate with people across generations. Her voice, a symbol of faith, tradition, and the joyous celebrations of life, will be remembered and cherished forever. Sinha's departure is indeed an irreplaceable loss to the cultural fabric of India.