Folk and devotional singer Maithili Thakur paused to remember the legendary Sharda Sinha as she arrived in Patna on Tuesday. Speaking to ANI, Maithili expressed her deep admiration for the late singer and reflected on how her absence will be felt during the upcoming Chhath Puja celebrations.
“Not just me, but the whole nation will miss her. Even Biharis living abroad will feel the void. She connected everyone to the spirit of Chhath through her voice. We all will miss her dearly,” Maithili said.
Sharda Sinha, fondly called the “Bihar Kokila”, was an iconic figure in Indian folk music. She earned the Padma Bhushan in 2018 and a National Film Award for her immense contribution to regional music.
Known for her soulful renditions in Bhojpuri and Maithili music, Sinha became a household name in Bihar, and all of India. Her songs hold special place in people’s hearts especially those dedicated to the Chhath festival.
Sinha passed away on November 5, 2024, at the age of 72. She was battling multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. Her health had worsened in the days leading to her death.
Also Read: “Milestone for Bihar”: Sharda Sinha’s son on Padma Vibhushan honour
During her decades-long career which began in the 1970s, Sharda Sinha not only popularized regional folk music but also bridged the gap between local traditions and national audiences. Her songs for the Chhath Mahaparv became almost synonymous with the festival itself.
| Bihar Elections 2025 | Ahead of the #BiharElection2025, renowned folk and devotional singer Maithili Thakur joined the BJP in Patna, Bihar, in the presence of state party chief Dilip Jaiswal.#BiharElections #MaithiliThakur #BJP #TheStatesman pic.x.com/ASWoo2122Z
— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) October 14, 2025
Amid this tribute, Maithili Thakur’s visit to Patna also sparked political speculation. Reports suggest that the young folk singer may contest in the upcoming Bihar assembly elections. While Maithili initially avoided confirming the news, she officially joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday.
Sources indicate that Maithili could be the party’s candidate from Alinagar in Darbhanga. The Bihar assembly elections, covering all 243 seats, are set for November 6 and November 11, with results to be announced on November 14.