Bihar Pays Tribute to ‘Kokila’ Sharda Sinha with State Honors for Her Last Rites

Celebrated folk singer Sharda Sinha, lovingly known as “Bihar Kokila,” passed away on November 5, 2024, at age 72, after a prolonged battle with myeloma. Her contributions to Indian folk music, especially her renditions associated with Chhath Puja, have made her an enduring cultural icon in Bihar and beyond. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar confirmed that her last rites will be conducted with full state honors to commemorate her legacy.

Sharda Sinha’s remains were brought from Delhi’s AIIMS Hospital to Patna, where her funeral will take place. Her son, Anshuman Sinha, expressed that the choice of Patna for her last rites was in keeping with her wish to be laid to rest near her late husband, who passed away in September.

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Known for her songs that celebrated Bihar’s traditional festivals, Sinha earned titles like “Voice of Chhath Puja” and received national accolades, including the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. Her passing on the first day of Chhath Puja has resonated deeply with her followers, who view her music as inseparable from the festival itself.

In her final days, Sinha had hoped to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a wish unfulfilled due to her illness. Her legacy, however, remains immortalized through her music, continuing to inspire and uplift countless fans during Chhath and beyond.

Muskaan Dwivedi, Web Team C6N