Sharda Sinha, a celebrated folk singer revered for her emotional and soulful renditions of traditional Chhath songs, is currently battling a critical health condition at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. The 72-year-old artist, who has been fighting multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, since 2018, experienced a severe health setback on Monday, leading doctors to place her on a ventilator. AIIMS officials have reported that she is “hemodynamically stable but under close monitoring.”
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The news of her critical condition has sent waves of concern throughout her fan base and the music community, especially as it coincides with the ongoing Chhath festival, a time when her voice traditionally resonates with devotees across Bihar and North India. Sharda’s son, Anshuman Sinha, has been providing regular updates about her health on social media and to news outlets, keeping fans informed during this challenging time.
Prime Minister Modi Assures Assistance
In a show of support, Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally reached out to Sharda Sinha’s family, offering all necessary assistance for her treatment. Anshuman Sinha, in a conversation with ANI, expressed gratitude for the Prime Minister’s assurance, which has brought comfort to the family during this difficult period.
A Legacy in Folk Music and Cultural Heritage
Sharda Sinha is widely regarded as a cultural icon and ambassador for the folk traditions of Bihar. Her career, which began in the 1970s, has elevated Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Hindi folk music to a national stage, where she became synonymous with the Chhath festival through her deeply resonant “Chhath geet.” Her work has earned her both popular and critical acclaim, including a National Film Award and India’s prestigious Padma Bhushan in 2018. Songs like “Babool” from the Bollywood classic Hum Aapke Hain Koun have cemented her place in regional and national music history, ensuring her legacy as one of India’s leading folk voices.