NEW DELHI: As Deepawali lights fade, another grand festival rises on the banks of rivers and rooftops across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh Chhath Puja, the festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. While devotees prepare offerings of thekua, kharna prasad, and fruits, one voice begins to echo in every home, every lane, and every ghat the melodious, devotional voice of the late Sharda Sinha. She is fondly remembered as the Bihar Kokila (the nightingale of Bihar).
Sharda Sinha was not just a singer; she was an emotion deeply tied to the soul of Bihar’s folk music. Her songs gave life to Chhath Puja and turned devotion into melody. Even though she is no longer with us, her voice remains immortal. Her songs continue to fill the air every year during Chhath, making the festival feel incomplete without her.
The Legacy of Sharda Sinha: The Soul of Chhath
Sharda Sinha’s contribution to Indian folk music, especially Bhojpuri and Maithili traditions, is priceless. Her songs are not merely performances; they are cultural treasures that carry the essence of rural India: devotion, purity, and emotional richness.
Born in Bihar, she rose to national fame through her soulful singing style that connected deeply with the common people. She was honoured with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan, for her unmatched contribution to Indian folk and classical music. Yet, for millions of devotees, her biggest gift remains her Chhath songs, those eternal hymns that make every dawn of Chhath feel divine.
Even though Sharda Sinha passed away, her voice continues to echo in every corner of Bihar and beyond. For devotees, she lives through her songs, in every soop (bamboo basket) prepared for offerings, in every arghya given to the rising sun, and in every emotion that flows with the river.
Her songs have become an inseparable part of the festival’s identity. When her voice fills the air, people feel a divine connection as if Chhathi Maiya herself is listening.
Let us revisit the Top 5 Chhath songs by Sharda Sinha, which continue to be the heartbeat of this sacred Mahaparv.
Pahile Pahil Chhathi Maiya
Released around eight years ago, “Pahile Pahil Chhathi Maiya” remains one of the most emotional and popular Chhath songs ever recorded. Despite the passage of time, its charm and devotional power have not faded. The song describes the experience of performing Chhath Puja for the first time, the nervousness, the purity, the excitement, and above all, the devotion that fills the heart of every devotee.
Sharda Sinha’s voice carries both the innocence and the intensity of faith. The lyrics speak of gratitude and repentance, blending human emotions with divine surrender. The song captures the essence of Chhath, a festival of dedication, family bonds, and the eternal relationship between human life and nature. Every year, as the festival arrives, this song trends again on social media and radio, proving that true devotion never grows old.
Chhathi Maiya Aaitan Aaj
When it comes to songs that have stood the test of time, “Chhathi Maiya Aaitan Aaj” is at the top. Released more than two decades ago, this devotional song still feels fresh every year when played during the Chhath festival. The song invokes Chhathi Maiya, welcoming her into homes and hearts with deep devotion and joy.
Sharda Sinha’s voice in this track radiates warmth and spiritual energy. The song’s lyrics express gratitude to the goddess for blessings, good health, and family well-being. Even after so many years, this song has not lost its magic, it continues to unite people in prayer and celebration. Whether it’s on loudspeakers at ghats or through mobile playlists, “Chhathi Maiya Aaitan Aaj” always finds a place in every devotee’s heart.
Tohe Badka Bhaiya Ho
Among all her popular numbers, “Tohe Badka Bhaiya Ho” holds a special place. This song, often played during Chhath preparations and celebrations, is one of the most recognized folk tracks of the festival. It is said to have been filmed on Sharda Sinha herself, making it even more memorable.
The song combines warmth, humor, and affection reflecting the vibrant social atmosphere around Chhath Puja. It beautifully portrays the relationships and conversations within families as they prepare for the rituals. The folk beats, traditional instruments, and Sharda Sinha’s expressive singing make “Tohe Badka Bhaiya Ho” a timeless favorite. Even today, it is played at every ghat, reminding everyone of the golden days of Bhojpuri folk music.
Ho Deenanaath
If one song could capture the devotion, emotion, and purity of Chhath Puja, it is “Ho Deenanaath”. This masterpiece is more than a song, it is a heartfelt prayer. Sung in her soft yet powerful voice, Sharda Sinha’s “Ho Deenanaath” is filled with reverence for Surya Devta (the Sun God). The way she delivers each word feels like a devotee standing waist-deep in river water, with folded hands, praying at sunrise.
The devotional depth in her voice, the gentle rhythm of the folk instruments, and the spiritual aura created by this song make it a must-listen for every Chhath. It beautifully connects generations from grandparents to young children all humming the same lines with faith and emotion. It is almost impossible to imagine Chhath Puja without this iconic song playing in the background.
Uthau Suruj Bhail Bihan
Another unforgettable gem from Sharda Sinha’s collection is “Uthau Suruj Bhail Bihan” meaning “Rise, O Sun, it is morning now.” What makes this song extra special is that Sharda Sinha herself composed it and also contributed to its lyrics. This personal touch gives the song a unique emotional depth.
The song depicts the early morning scene of Chhath devotees standing in rivers and ponds, waiting to offer arghya (sacred water) to the rising Sun. The gentle melody and traditional folk rhythm make the listener feel like they are standing by the riverbank, surrounded by chants, conch shells, and the fragrance of incense.
Through this song, Sharda Sinha perfectly paints the spiritual beauty of the dawn, the moment when darkness fades, and light blesses every devotee. It is not just a song; it’s an experience that brings peace to every heart.
As devotees prepare once again for the four-day festival from Nahay-Khay to Kharna and from Sandhya Arghya to Bhor Arghya, her voice will continue to guide hearts toward devotion. In truth, Chhath Puja feels incomplete without Sharda Sinha’s songs. Her music is the soul of this Mahaparv, a timeless echo of faith, love, and gratitude that will continue to live on, generation after generation.
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