Sharda Sinha Biography– Sharda Sinha is an Indian award-winning singer, who did more of folk songs or classical songs in traditional Maithili or Bhojpuri.
After 72 years of existing and making meaningful impact, Sharda Sinha’s news of passing away rented the air, leaving fans and followers sad.
In this article, Thefamousnaija brings to you the life and times of Sharda Sinha, starting from early life till achievements.
Early life and background
Sharda Sinha was born on 1st of October, 1952 in Hulas, a small village in the Supaul district of Bihar, India. From a young age, she was deeply influenced by the cultural and musical traditions of her region.
Her father, Sukhdev Thakur, was the Joint Director of Education in Bihar, and her mother was a homemaker. Sharda’s early exposure to music came from her grandmother, who would sing traditional Chhath songs during religious ceremonies.
Sharda pursued her education at Magadh Mahila College in Bihar, where she graduated. She furthered her studies in music at Prayag Sangeet Samiti in Allahabad and earned a Master’s degree in Music. Her academic journey culminated with a PhD in Music from Lalit Narayan Mithila University.
Musical Career
Sharda Sinha’s musical career began in the 1970s when she started singing Maithili folk songs. Her debut album, “Dwar Ke Chekai Nega,” released in 1971, marked the beginning of a prolific career. She gained widespread recognition with her song “Kahe Toh Se Sajna” from the Bollywood film “Maine Pyar Kiya” in 1989.
Throughout her career, Sharda Sinha remained dedicated to promoting traditional Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi music. She was particularly known for her Chhath songs, which became an integral part of the Chhath Puja celebrations in Bihar. Her soulful renditions of “Vivah Geet” and “Chhath Geet” resonated with audiences across India and beyond.
Husband and Family
Sharda Sinha married Dr. Braj Kishore Sinha, a professor at the Science College of Samastipur, on May 8, 1970. The couple had two children: a son, Anshuman Sinha, and a daughter, Vandana Sinha Bharadwaj, both of whom followed in their mother’s footsteps and became folk singers.
Sharda Sinha’s personal life was marked by her deep commitment to her family and her music. Despite her busy career, she always made time for her loved ones and was known for her humility and kindness.
Achievements and Awards
Sharda Sinha’s contributions to Indian music were recognized with numerous awards and honors. Some of the most notable include:
– Padma Shri (1991): Awarded for her exceptional contribution to Indian music.
– Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2001): Recognizing her achievements in the field of traditional music.
– Padma Bhushan (2018): India’s third-highest civilian award, honoring her lifelong dedication to music.
– Lok Nirmala Award (2022): Presented by the UP Sangeet Natak Academy for her outstanding work in folk music.
Sharda Sinha’s Music
Sharda Sinha’s music was a beautiful blend of tradition and emotion. Her songs often depicted the cultural and social life of Bihar, making her a beloved figure in the region.
Sharda Sinha Cause of Death
Sharda Sinha was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017, a type of blood cancer that affects plasma cells. Despite her illness, she continued to perform and inspire her fans. On November 5, 2024, Sharda Sinha passed away at the age of 72 in New Delhi, India. She was on ventilator support at AIIMS Delhi before her demise.
Legacy
Sharda Sinha’s legacy is one of passion, dedication, and cultural pride. She played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the folk music of Bihar, ensuring that it reached audiences far and wide. Her songs continue to be a source of inspiration and joy for many, and her contributions to Indian music will be remembered for generations to come.
Conclusion
Sharda Sinha’s life was a testament to the power of music and its ability to transcend boundaries. Her dedication to her craft and her unwavering commitment to her cultural roots made her a beloved figure in the world of music. As we remember her, we celebrate not only her achievements but also the rich musical heritage she left behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Sharda Sinha?
Sharda Sinha was an Indian folk and classical singer known for her contributions to Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi music.
2. What are some of Sharda Sinha’s famous songs?
Some of her famous songs include “Kahe Toh Se Sajna,” “Taar Bijli,” and various Chhath songs like “Kelwa Ke Paat Par Ugalan Suraj Mal Jhake Jhuke.”
3. What awards did Sharda Sinha receive?
She received several awards, including the Padma Shri in 1991, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2001, and the Padma Bhushan in 2018.
4. What was the cause of Sharda Sinha’s death?
Sharda Sinha passed away due to complications from multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.
5. How did Sharda Sinhap contribute to Indian music?
Sharda Sinha played a significant role in promoting and preserving the folk music of Bihar, making it popular across India and beyond.