Sharda Sinha Biography, Age, Early Life, Career Wiki, and Facts
Sharda Sinha is one of India’s most celebrated and influential folk singers. Widely known for her deep-rooted connection to the rich musical traditions of Bihar and her exceptional contribution to the folk music genre, Sharda Sinha has earned the admiration and respect of music lovers and critics alike. Her distinctive voice and her ability to perform a variety of genres, including traditional Bhojpuri and Maithili folk songs, have made her a household name. In this article, we explore Sharda Sinha’s biography, her early life, career achievements, and some interesting facts about her journey to fame.
Sharda Sinha Biography and Early Life
Born on October 1, 1952, in Bhagalpur, Bihar, Sharda Sinha comes from a musical family that played a pivotal role in shaping her career. Her early exposure to music came from her father, Raghunath Sinha, who was also a passionate musician and vocalist. Growing up in an environment where music was deeply appreciated, Sharda developed an interest in singing from a very young age.
Her early education was in Bhagalpur, where she attended local schools. However, it was her love for music that ultimately became the driving force in her life. Sharda Sinha’s talent for singing was recognized early on, and her parents encouraged her to pursue music seriously. Under the guidance of various classical and folk music maestros, Sharda honed her vocal skills and became adept at singing a variety of folk genres, including Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Magahi music.
As a young girl, Sharda was trained in classical music, which became the foundation for her later success in folk music. She also learned to play the tabla and harmonium, which allowed her to better understand the nuances of traditional music. Her dedication and perseverance soon bore fruit as she began to gain recognition for her singing talent in local performances and cultural events.
Career: Rise to Fame
Sharda Sinha’s professional journey began when she moved to Patna to pursue a career in music. She became a regular performer on the All India Radio (AIR) station in Patna, where her songs began to gain widespread attention. In the 1970s, she made her breakthrough in folk music with a number of popular songs that were aired on regional radio stations, particularly in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
Her deep, soulful voice and her ability to convey the emotion and essence of Bhojpuri and Maithili folk music captured the hearts of many. She rose to prominence with her renditions of traditional songs, many of which focused on themes like rural life, love, devotion, and the cultural history of Bihar. Sharda’s music resonated with listeners, as it echoed the stories and struggles of ordinary people, especially women in rural Bihar.
One of the turning points in Sharda Sinha’s career came in the 1980s when she began performing at major cultural festivals and musical events across India. Her presence at national music festivals, coupled with her performances on Doordarshan (India’s national television network), further boosted her recognition. She also became a sought-after artist for film playback singing, contributing to many regional and national films with her powerful vocals.
Her song “Bihar Ke Babu”, a popular Bhojpuri track, became an anthem in Bihar and other Hindi-speaking regions. This was one of the early hits that introduced her music to a larger audience and solidified her reputation as a leading voice in the folk music scene.
Sharda Sinha’s style blends classical music with traditional folk tunes, and she is known for reviving the ancient folk music forms of Bihar. She was one of the key figures who brought attention to Bhojpuri folk music, which had been overshadowed by the dominance of Bollywood music.
Notable Contributions and Achievements
Sharda Sinha’s contributions to Indian music go beyond just her performances. She is credited with preserving the cultural heritage of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh through her music. Sharda’s songs often speak to the cultural identity of the people in these regions, and she is regarded as one of the leading ambassadors of the Bhojpuri language and culture.
She has sung for numerous Bhojpuri films, Maithili films, and television shows and has also contributed to the popularization of folk songs in national music competitions and festivals. Some of her most famous songs include “Bihar Ke Babu,” “Ae Jiya Jale,” and “Sitaron Ke Samne”, among others.
Throughout her career, Sharda Sinha has received numerous awards and accolades for her contribution to folk music. She has been honored with prestigious awards, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, which is one of the highest honors given by the Indian government to individuals for their contribution to the arts.
Her contribution to folk music has also been acknowledged internationally, with her music being recognized at several global platforms. Sharda’s influence in the field of folk music has not only earned her fame but also the title of Bihar’s Nightingale, a fitting tribute to her vocal abilities and her dedication to folk music.
Facts and Trivia About Sharda Sinha
- Full Name: Sharda Sinha
- Date of Birth: October 1, 1952
- Place of Birth: Bhagalpur, Bihar, India
- Genre: Folk, Classical, Bhojpuri, Maithili
- Known For: Bhojpuri folk music, Maithili folk songs
- Awards: Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, Bihar Gaurav Award, and many more
- Music Debut: She made her mark in the 1970s with All India Radio and Doordarshan performances.
- Famous Songs: “Bihar Ke Babu,” “Ae Jiya Jale,” “Sitaron Ke Samne”
- Musical Training: Trained in classical music from an early age and was a student of renowned gurus.
- Global Recognition: Her work has earned her recognition both in India and internationally, particularly in regions where Bhojpuri and Maithili-speaking communities reside.
- Social Work: Sharda Sinha is also known for her involvement in social causes, especially those related to women’s empowerment and cultural preservation.
Conclusion
Sharda Sinha’s legacy as a pioneer of Bhojpuri and Maithili folk music is undeniable. Through her powerful voice and her dedication to preserving traditional music, she has earned a place as one of India’s most respected and beloved folk singers. Her contributions to the music industry are not just limited to her songs but also extend to the preservation and promotion of the rich cultural heritage of Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
With decades of experience and a strong presence in the folk music scene, Sharda Sinha has set the bar for generations of aspiring musicians. She remains an iconic figure whose music continues to inspire millions and enrich the cultural landscape of India.
