In a heartfelt tribute to her lifelong dedication to Indian folk music, Smt. Sharda Sinha has been posthumously honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award. Hailing from Bihar, Sinha was a legendary figure in the realm of folk and classical music, widely revered as the “Voice of Chhath” and affectionately known as “Bihar Kokila.”
Born in 1952 in Supaul district, Sharda Sinha rose to national fame through her soul-stirring performances in Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi—bringing regional traditions into the mainstream with dignity and grace. Her Chhath Puja songs became an essential part of the festival, deeply ingrained in the cultural identity of Bihar and beyond.
Over a five-decade career, she received several national honours, including the Padma Shri (1991), Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2000), and Padma Bhushan (2018). The posthumous Padma Vibhushan now cements her status as one of India’s most respected folk artists.
Her work extended into Bollywood as well, contributing vocals to films such as Maine Pyar Kiya and Gangs of Wasseypur II. But it was her commitment to preserving the folk traditions of Bihar that made her an enduring cultural icon.
Sinha passed away on November 5, 2024, poignantly on the first day of Chhath Puja—a festival she helped immortalize through music. Her son, Anshuman Sinha, accepted the Padma Vibhushan on her behalf at Rashtrapati Bhavan, stating:
“This is a moment of immense pride for Bihar and a fitting tribute to a voice that defined generations.”
Her songs will continue to echo through the lanes of Bihar and the hearts of millions, preserving her legacy as a torchbearer of India’s rich folk heritage.
