Folk singer Sharda Sinha in critical condition at AIIMS Delhi

Patna: Padma Bhushan recipient and renowned folk singer Sharda Sinha has been admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at AIIMS Delhi. According to her son, Anshuman Sinha, she has been undergoing treatment for the past week, with her health worsening in recent days. Speaking to Dainik Bhaskar, Anshuman revealed that she had been struggling to eat and drink for the past seven days before being admitted. Despite medical attention, her condition continues to deteriorate.

Bihar’s Health Minister, Mangal Pandey, has expressed concern over Sinha’s health and has spoken to her son, assuring that every possible assistance will be provided by both the state and central governments for her treatment.

This comes just weeks after a personal tragedy for the singer. On September 22, her husband, Brajkishore Sinha, passed away following a brain haemorrhage.

Sharda Sinha, celebrated for her contributions to Bhojpuri and Maithili music, is best known for her Chhath Puja songs, which remain beloved across Bihar and beyond. Her career, which began with a song at her brother’s wedding, has earned her widespread acclaim, culminating in the prestigious Padma Bhushan award in 2018 for her contribution to Indian music.

Born on 1 October 1952 in Hulsa, Supaul district, Bihar, Sinha’s love for music was nurtured by her father, Sukhdev Thakur, an officer in Bihar’s education department, who hired a teacher to train her in music and dance. Despite facing resistance from her in-laws after marrying Brajkishore Sinha, a resident of Begusarai, she found support from her father and husband, which enabled her to pursue her musical dreams.

In a 2021 interview, Sinha recounted how her singing career began at her brother’s wedding. She performed a traditional song to ask for a wedding gift, singing: “First pay the gift of the door Chekai, hey dear brother, only then will you go to Kohbar.”

Sharda Sinha’s contributions to regional music, particularly her soulful renditions of traditional Chhath songs, have earned her a revered place in the hearts of millions. Fans and well-wishers across the country are praying for her speedy recovery.