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Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God and his consort, Chhathi Maiya, is a time of immense joy and devotion. The festival is celebrated with great fervor in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. One of the most cherished traditions of Chhath Puja is the singing of devotional songs, known as 'Chhath Geet', that fill the air with spiritual resonance and enhance the celebratory mood. While various singers contribute to the rich tapestry of Chhath music, Sharda Sinha stands out as an iconic voice whose songs are synonymous with the festival, resonating deeply with devotees across the globe.
Sharda Sinha, a renowned Bhojpuri and Maithili folk singer, has captured the essence of Chhath in her songs. Her soulful voice, infused with traditional folk elements, creates a unique and captivating atmosphere during the festival. The lyrics of her songs are often imbued with devotion, expressing gratitude to the Sun God for his life-giving energy and seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being. Her songs are not just about religious devotion but also celebrate the cultural heritage and traditions associated with Chhath Puja.
The widespread popularity of Sharda Sinha's Chhath songs goes beyond geographical boundaries. Her melodies and lyrics resonate with Bihari communities residing in various parts of India and even abroad. The songs, sung at the sacred 'Chhathi Ghat' where devotees offer prayers to the rising and setting sun, are an integral part of the rituals and celebrations. From the traditional ‘Pahile Pahil Chhathi Maiya Ke’ to ‘Kelwa ke Paat Par’, her songs evoke a sense of unity and shared cultural heritage amongst devotees.
Sharda Sinha's contributions to music extend beyond Chhath songs. Her melodious voice has graced Bollywood films, adding a touch of authentic folk flavor to soundtracks. Her rendition of ‘Kahe Toh Se Sajna’ in the Salman Khan and Bhagyashree-starrer ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ brought her widespread recognition, and she later lent her distinctive voice to Anurag Kashyap's ‘Gangs of Wasseypur’ with the song ‘Taar Bijli’, which perfectly complemented the film's gritty tone. However, her legacy remains deeply entwined with Chhath Puja, where her songs continue to be an essential element of the celebration, adding devotion, joy, and cultural richness to the festivities.
The legacy of Sharda Sinha as a Chhath singer is solidified through the enduring popularity of her songs. They serve as a unifying force, connecting devotees across generations and geographical locations, ensuring that the traditions and spirit of Chhath Puja are preserved and celebrated with unwavering enthusiasm.
Source: Chhath Puja 2024: 6 Sharda Sinha Songs To Celebrate The Joyous Occasion