Sharda Sinha’s death: Did you know these Bollywood songs were also sung by Bihar's kokila?

Sharda Sinha, known as the “Bihar Kokila,” left an irreplaceable mark on Indian music with her evocative voice, deeply rooted in folk traditions. Her passing at 72 during the ongoing Chhath Puja, a festival she celebrated through her songs, marks the end of an era. Sinha’s music was not confined to just folk; her voice transcended boundaries, bringing the authentic sounds of Bihar to the heart of Bollywood. As we bid farewell, let’s revisit some Bollywood tracks where her folk-inspired voice touched audiences across generations, creating a bridge between cultural roots and contemporary cinema.

Kahe Toh Se Sajna?- Maine Pyar Kiya?(1989)

In the late ‘80s, Sharda Sinha captured hearts nationwide with her song Kahe Toh Se Sajna from Maine Pyar Kiya. The track, sung for Salman Khan and Bhagyashree's romantic hit, carries a rustic charm infused with traditional wedding emotions. Composed by Raamlaxman, Sinha’s soulful rendition of this playful love song offers a glimpse into the regional musical heritage of Bihar. Her raw, vibrant vocals gave the soundtrack a unique cultural texture, introducing mainstream audiences to the emotional, melodic landscape of North Indian folk. Through this single, Sinha became not just a singer but a cultural ambassador, connecting urban audiences with India’s folk traditions.

Babul Jo Tum Ne sikhaya – Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994)

In Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! Sharda Sinha delivered one of Bollywood’s most tear-jerking farewell songs, Babul Jo Tum Ne Sikhaya. As Renuka’s character bids a heart-wrenching goodbye to her family, Sinha’s voice added an emotional depth that tugged at the audience's heartstrings. The song reflects the timeless theme of a daughter’s love for her father, creating an everlasting connection for many Indian families who play it during wedding rituals.

Taar Bijli Se Patle – Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2 (2012)

In Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2, Sharda Sinha’s song Taar Bijli Se Patle added a lively, humorous touch to Anurag Kashyap's intense crime drama. This vibrant track, with Sinha’s playful vocals and Bhojpuri inflection, celebrates the zest for life in rural India. Known for her power to captivate through voice alone, Sinha brought humour and liveliness to this track, contrasting beautifully with the gritty undertones of the film. Her powerful rendition celebrates the daily spirit of rural communities, making this song an authentic representation of the film’s regional backdrop.

Kaun Si Nagaria – Chaarfutiya Chhokare (2014)

Sharda Sinha’s versatility shone in Kaun Si Nagaria from Chaarfutiya Chhokare, a song that resonates with haunting emotions of loss and longing. In her rendition, Sinha transformed the track into a deeply emotional narrative. Known for her ability to convey complex emotions through simple folk tunes, Sinha infused a haunting quality into this lesser-known track, enriching the film's soundtrack with her emotive voice.

The Sharda Sinha legacy

While Sinha’s Bollywood contributions were selective, each song embodies her unique ability to blend folk with film, and I am sure everyone has at least once heard these songs.