"Chhath is incomplete without Sharda Sinha," says Bihar MP Shambhavi Chaudhary

Patna (Bihar) [India], November 6 (ANI): Expressing grief over the demise of legendary folk singer Sharda Sinha, Bihar MP and daughter of Ashok Chaudhary, Shambhavi Chaudhary said that Chhath is incomplete without her.
"Chhath is incomplete without Sharda Sinha. Her songs are played in every house during Chhath...," said Shambhavi Chaudhary on Wednesday.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences on the passing of Sharda Sinha, recognising her enduring contribution to Bhojpuri and Maithili folk music. He said, "The echo of her melodious songs will endure forever." He added that her death is an "irreparable loss" for the music world.
In a social media post on X, PM Modi wrote, "I am deeply saddened by the demise of renowned folk singer Sharda Sinha ji. Her Maithili and Bhojpuri folk songs have been beloved for decades. The echo of her beautiful songs, especially those connected to the sacred Chhath festival, will remain forever. Her loss is immeasurable for the music world. My thoughts are with her family and fans in this moment of grief. Om Shanti!"
Sharda Sinha, renowned for her soulful Chhath songs, passed away on Tuesday after battling multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer, for several years.
The Padma Bhushan awardee had been receiving treatment at AIIMS Hospital in New Delhi since her admission on October 27.
A veteran in music since the 1970s, Sharda Sinha contributed profoundly to Bhojpuri, Maithili, and Hindi folk music. She was honoured with the Padma Bhushan in 2018 and also received a National Film Award for her contributions to regional cinema.
As the four-day Chhath Puja festivities have kickstarted, 'Kharna' prasad preparations are underway at the residence of Bihar Minister Ashok Chaudhary on the second day on Wednesday.
Expressing joy MP and daughter of Ashok Chaudhary, Shambhavi Chaudhary said, "Even before becoming the MP, I used to celebrate Chhath Puja with the same spirit. I am fortunate enough to participate in Chhath Puja with my mother. People across Bihar celebrate Chhath Puja."
Meanwhile, The Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena, has declared Thursday a public holiday in all Delhi government offices in observance of 'Pratihar Shashthi' or 'Surya Shashthi' (Chhath Puja).
The four-day festival began on Tuesday. Chhath Puja, dedicated to the Sun God, is celebrated across various Indian states and internationally.
This year, it spans from November 5 to 8. (ANI)