Author: Neehar Founder | Author | Catalyst Explore the legacy of Padma Bhushan awardee Sharda Sinha, a legendary folk singer from Bihar whose voice became synonymous with the
Founder | Author | Catalyst
Sharda Sinha, known as the “Voice of Chhath,” is a name that resonates deeply with anyone who has celebrated the beloved festival of Chhath. Since childhood, her melodious voice has been synonymous with Bihar’s rich traditions, particularly during Chhath Puja. She passed away, leaving behind a legacy that transcends generations and geographical boundaries.
With a career spanning decades, Sharda Sinha became a household name for her dedication to preserving Bihar’s folk music. Her music celebrates the Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi cultures, keeping the essence of Bihar alive in the hearts of millions.
Born in the small village of Hulas in Supaul district, Bihar, and later residing in Sihama village in Begusarai district, Sharda Sinha’s early life was rooted in the cultural richness of Bihar. Her passion for music led her to pursue a path that would eventually make her an ambassador of Bhojpuri and Maithili folk traditions worldwide. She sang in 62 Chhath songs across nine albums with major labels like T-Series, HMV, and Tips. Through her music, she preserved and promoted the festival of Chhath, one of Bihar’s most revered celebrations.
While her heart lay in the folk songs of Bihar, Sharda Sinha’s talent caught the attention of Bollywood as well. Her distinct voice became a cultural bridge, bringing Bihar’s rustic charm to a wider audience. One of her most cherished songs is “Kahe Toh Se Sajna” from the blockbuster Maine Pyar Kiya (1989), a film where Salman Khan made his debut.
She further enriched Bollywood with her voice in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Gangs of Wasseypur Part II, Char Footiya Chokre, and Deswa. Her Hindi songs maintained her authenticity and brought a new dimension to Hindi cinema, where her voice added a layer of regional essence that resonated with audiences nationwide.
Sharda Sinha’s contribution to Indian music was recognized with several prestigious awards. In 1991, she was awarded the Padma Shri, and in 2018, she received the Padma Bhushan—India’s third-highest civilian honor. These awards are a testament to her role in preserving and promoting folk music on a national scale. Recently, the iconic brands Femina and Filmfare honored her posthumously for her unmatched contribution to music, celebrating her legacy as one that brought regional folk music to the global stage.
Sharda Sinha’s voice isn’t just a musical treasure; it’s a cultural artifact that has kept Bihar’s folk traditions alive in modern times. Her songs evoke nostalgia, reverence, and pride among Biharis worldwide. She didn’t just sing; she wove the stories of Bihar’s festivals, rituals, and daily lives into her songs, leaving an indelible mark on India’s cultural landscape. Her legacy serves as a beacon, inspiring younger generations to cherish and preserve Bihar’s heritage.
Sharda Sinha’s music will always be cherished, and her voice will continue to echo through the celebrations of Chhath and beyond, keeping the cultural spirit of Bihar alive for generations to come.
At Bihar Say, we celebrate Sharda Sinha’s incredible contributions to Bihar’s cultural identity. Her music remains a vital part of our lives, especially during the sacred Chhath Puja, reminding us of our roots and the beauty of our traditions.
Stay connected with Bihar Say as we continue to honor Bihar’s icons, document its rich heritage, and share inspiring stories from our state. Sharda Sinha’s voice may have faded, but her songs and her spirit will forever resonate with us.
