TNFNew Delhi/ TNF
Sharda Sinha is an acclaimed folk singer from Bihar, India, known as the “Bihar Kokila” or “Nightingale of Bihar.” Her soulful voice has brought Bihari folk music to national and international stages, making her a beloved cultural icon. Through her songs, Sharda Sinha has not only celebrated Bihar’s heritage but has also connected generations to their roots, helping to preserve the region’s traditional art forms.
Born on October 1, 1952, in Hulas, a small village in Bihar’s Samastipur district, Sinha was exposed to local folk traditions from an early age. She was deeply inspired by the rich musical culture of her village and started singing in family gatherings and local events. Encouraged by her family, she pursued her passion, eventually enrolling in Patna University, where she completed her Master’s degree in music. Her love for folk songs and her dedication to preserving them have been the driving force behind her career.
The Journey to Fame
Sharda Sinha’s music journey was not easy. During the early years of her career, she faced challenges, as folk music was not considered as popular or mainstream in the Indian music industry. However, she remained committed to her roots and continued performing traditional Bihari songs, gaining recognition for her unique voice and style.
Her breakthrough came with the release of her iconic songs “Vivah Geet” and “Suhar Gari”—songs associated with traditional Bihari wedding customs. These songs became widely popular, capturing the essence of Bihari weddings and rituals. Over time, her music reached not only Bihar but audiences across India, establishing her as the face of Bhojpuri and Maithili folk music. Sinha’s ability to evoke emotions through her songs and bring out the beauty of rural life helped her win the hearts of millions.
Contribution to Bollywood
Sharda Sinha’s talent caught the attention of Bollywood, where she was invited to lend her voice to several popular films. Her song “Kahe Toh Se Sajna” from the 1999 film Gangs of Wasseypur brought her mainstream fame, introducing a wider audience to Bihari folk music. Her voice also graced the soundtrack of the 2017 film M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, a movie based on the life of Indian cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni. In the film, she sang the song “Phoolon Ka Taron Ka,” which beautifully captured the essence of family bonds and values. Her work in Bollywood not only enhanced the movies but also showcased the beauty of folk music on a larger scale.
Awards and Recognition
Sharda Sinha’s dedication to promoting and preserving Indian folk music has earned her numerous accolades. She has received multiple awards, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, which she was honored with in 2018. Prior to that, she had also been awarded the Padma Shri in 1991, further cementing her legacy as a significant cultural contributor.
In addition to these honors, she has been recognized with various state awards, cultural honors, and lifetime achievement awards from different organizations and music academies. These awards reflect her impact on Indian folk music and her success in popularizing Bihari traditions.
Sharda Sinha’s Legacy
Sharda Sinha has not only entertained audiences with her melodious voice but has also played a key role in preserving Bihari culture through music. Her songs cover a wide range of traditional themes, including wedding songs, seasonal folk songs, and devotional music, all of which resonate deeply with people from Bihar and neighboring states. Her music speaks of rural life, relationships, and customs, preserving a slice of India’s rich cultural heritage.
By staying true to her roots, she has inspired countless young musicians and artists to take pride in their cultural heritage. Even today, she remains actively involved in music and is seen as a mentor by aspiring folk artists. Sinha frequently performs at cultural festivals and events, encouraging the youth to embrace and respect their cultural history.
A National Icon with Global Reach
While she is primarily associated with Bihari music, Sharda Sinha’s songs have gained popularity outside India as well, particularly among Indian communities abroad. Her music is cherished by people of all ages who find comfort and joy in her authentic voice. Her songs have been played during festive celebrations, especially during Chhath Puja, a major festival in Bihar. Her song “Ho Dinanath” is especially popular during this festival, making her voice an essential part of the Chhath celebrations.
Sharda Sinha’s dedication has elevated her to a unique position where she is more than just a singer; she is a cultural ambassador for Bihar and Indian folk traditions. Her contribution goes beyond entertainment, as she continues to use her art to remind people of their roots and the importance of cultural preservation.
Sharda Sinha’s journey from a small village in Bihar to the national stage is an inspiring story of talent, resilience, and cultural pride. Known as the “Nightingale of Bihar,” she has given Bihari folk music a unique identity and helped it gain recognition and respect across India and beyond. Through her dedication to music, she has preserved and popularized traditions that may have otherwise faded over time. Sharda Sinha remains an enduring symbol of Bihari pride and Indian folk music, her songs continuing to connect people to their heritage and celebrate the beauty of rural traditions.
