Bihar Kokila Sharda Sinha Biography, Early Life, Career, Awards and Honors

Sharda Sinha is often called the “Voice of Bihar.” Known for her beautiful songs in Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi, she has won the hearts of millions, especially during festivals like Chhath and at Indian weddings. Her dedication to music has earned her many awards, including the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. Let’s explore her early life, family, career, and her recent health updates.

Early Life and Background of Sharda Sinha

Sharda Sinha, known as the “Bihar Kokila” (Cuckoo of Bihar), was born on October 1, 1952, in the village of Hulas, Supaul district, Bihar. Her love for music began early, and she later gained formal training in music, completing her education at Magadh Mahila College, Prayag Sangeet Samiti, and Lalit Narayan Mithila University. She earned a PhD in Music and a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree.

Music Journey and Early Career of Bihar Kokila Sharda Sinha

Sharda Sinha’s career began in the 1980s, with her unique voice capturing the essence of Bihar’s folk music. She started by singing traditional Maithili folk songs and soon gained popularity across Bihar and beyond. Her music is sung in languages like Maithili, Bhojpuri, Magahi, and Hindi, with songs that celebrate cultural festivals and traditions.

Popularity and Titles to Sharda Sinha

Due to her melodious voice and dedication to folk music, she is affectionately known as “Bihar Kokila.” Her songs often highlight traditional themes and festivals like Chhath Puja, a major festival in Bihar. She is especially known for her songs like “Vivah Geet” and “Chhath Geet,” which resonate with audiences during wedding and Chhath Puja celebrations.

Iconic Performances and Contributions

Sharda Sinha has performed at various significant events. She was invited to sing during the Basant Mahotsav at Prayag Sangeet Samiti in Allahabad, where she presented songs celebrating spring. Her performances are also a staple during Chhath Puja, an important festival in Bihar, and she performed when Mauritius’ Prime Minister, Navin Ramgoolam, visited Bihar.

In 2010, she performed at the Bihar Utsav at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, representing Bihar’s cultural heritage on a national platform.

Bollywood and Film Songs

Sharda Sinha has sung in Bollywood, adding her voice to movies like Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) with the famous song “Kahe Toh Se Sajna,” Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2 with “Taar Bijli,” and Chaarfutiya Chhokare with “Kaun Si Nagariya.” Her work in Bollywood brought her folk music style to a larger audience.

Contributions of Sharda Sinha to Chhath Puja Music

Sharda Sinha is closely associated with Chhath Puja music, having recorded numerous songs that are played every year during the festival. In 2016, she released new songs for Chhath after a decade-long gap, including “Supawo Naa Mile Maai” and “Pahile Pahil Chhathi Maiya,” which invited people to return to Bihar for the festival. She has recorded 62 Chhath songs across nine albums, striving to preserve Bihar’s rich culture through her music.

Awards and Honors Presented to Sharda Sinha

For her significant contribution to music, Sharda Sinha has received several prestigious awards. In 1991, she was honored with the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award. In 2018, she received the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award. She was also honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for her work in folk music.

Personal Life of Sharda Sinha

Sharda Sinha was married to Brajkishore Sinha in 1970 and they had two children together. Sadly, her husband passed away in 2024. Despite personal challenges, she has continued to contribute to music, inspiring many with her dedication.

Legacy and Impact of Sharda Sinha

Sharda Sinha’s music has left a lasting legacy, not only in Bihar but across India. Known as the voice of Bihar’s traditions and festivals, her songs keep Bihar’s cultural heritage alive. Through her music, she has become an icon, connecting generations to the beauty of folk traditions.