Preserving Maithili Tradition: Sharda Sinha's Contribution to Folk Music

Preserving Maithili Tradition: Sharda Sinha’s Contribution to Folk Music

Folk music plays a significant role in preserving the cultural heritage of any region. It serves as a medium to pass down beliefs, traditions, and values from one generation to another. In the case of Maithili, a language spoken in Bihar and parts of Nepal, Sharda Sinha has been instrumental in preserving the rich traditions through her soulful folk music.

Sharda Sinha, known as the “Nightangle of Bihar,” is a renowned Indian folk singer. Her deep connection to the Maithili culture and devotion to preserving its traditions have made her an icon not just in Bihar but across the country. Born on October 9, 1952, in Samastipur district of Bihar, Sinha began her musical journey at a tender age.

Growing up in a family that cherished the art of music, Sinha received early exposure to various traditional forms. Her father, Pandit Surendra Nath Jha, was a known classical singer, and her mother, Shanti Devi, played the harmonium beautifully. This rich musical environment nurtured her talent and ignited her passion for folk music.

Sinha’s melodious voice, coupled with her love for Maithili culture, set her on a path to preserve and popularize the traditions through music. She became an integral part of various cultural institutions, including “Maithili Kala Parishad” and “Vaishali Mahotsav Samiti,” where she actively participated in performances and promotions of Maithili art forms.

One of Sinha’s most significant contributions to Maithili folk music came through her numerous albums and stage performances. She infused her renditions with authenticity and emotion, capturing the essence of Maithili music and touching the hearts of millions. Some of her popular songs, like “Birha,” “Bihula-Bisahri,” and “Kahiya doli leke aibo,” have become timeless classics that continue to be sung and treasured by music lovers.

Sinha’s devotion to traditional folk music led her to research and resurrect unique forms that were gradually fading away. She explored the depth of Bhikhari Thakur’s plays, a prominent Maithili playwright and performer, and revived his work by incorporating them into her stage shows. This endeavor not only brought Thakur’s legacy back to life but also introduced a new generation to the beauty of Maithili music and theater.

Moreover, Sinha’s contributions extend beyond her captivating performances. She played a key role in promoting the Maithili language in mainstream Indian cinema. Through her collaborations with Bollywood, Sinha helped in popularizing Maithili music among a wider audience. Her music in movies like “Maati Maangey Khoon” and “Gangs of Wasseypur” introduced the powerful Maithili compositions to people who may have never experienced its beauty before.

The impact of Sharda Sinha’s work goes beyond preserving Maithili tradition; she has become an inspiration for aspiring musicians, especially women, to embrace their cultural roots. Her success and dedication have broken barriers and stereotypes, paving the way for many others to follow their artistic passion while embracing their heritage.

As we celebrate the contributions of Sharda Sinha to Maithili music, it is crucial to recognize the importance of preserving and promoting traditional folk music in our society. These art forms are not only an expression of our cultural identity but also connect us to our roots, reminding us of our values and heritage.

Thanks to Sharda Sinha’s relentless efforts and commitment to Maithili tradition, the musical legacy continues to thrive. Her contributions serve as an inspiration for artists and the Maithili community to cherish and preserve the invaluable treasure of folk music for generations to come.