Chhath represents an essential cornerstone of cultural identity for millions in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh, where the four-day festivities traditionally spring to life through collective family gatherings, sacred rituals, and the quintessential background melody of Sharda Sinha’s classic Pahile Pahil Hum Kayin. The recently released movie Vvaan: Forest of the Forrest featuring Tamannaah Bhatia, Shweta Tiwari, Sidharth Malhotra, Sunil Grover, and Anup Soni hit theatres on September 25, and despite receiving mixed critical responses, its Chhathi Maiya track captured public affection immediately. While initial social media commentary suggested that a Bhojpuri recording would have been more fitting, the creators had secretly integrated Sharda Sinha’s immortal folk song into the movie as a special tribute. Maintaining the soul and vibrant energy of the festival, the makers included the track in a sequence where actors Shweta Tiwari and Anup Soni meticulously prepare for the sacred rituals. A video capturing the audience’s theatre experience of listening to Ma Sharda’s voice was shared by Nishant Singh of The Viral Fever, who recommended it as an absolute must-watch for every Chhath lover. Fans shared deeply emotional reactions online, with one user declaring that the movie would sustain itself solely on the strength of Chhathi Maiya, while others confessed to getting instant goosebumps and remembering their childhoods. One viewer beautifully summed it up by calling it a celebration of pure culture rather than just a feeling, echoing the sentiments of millions who regard Sharda Sinha as Bihar’s Kokila and the ultimate Voice of Chhath. Famed for her remarkable contributions across Hindi, Maithili, Magahi, and Bhojpuri genres, her iconic tracks like Pahile Pahil Hum Kayin remain indispensable to every annual Chhath Puja and festive digital trend. A recipient of prestigious accolades including the Padma Shri in 1991, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2000, and the Padma Bhushan in 2018, Sharda Sinha was born in Bihar’s Supaul district and delivered timeless commercial hits such as Kahe Toh Se Sajna from Maine Pyar Kiya and Taar Bijli from Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2. Yet, her true eternal home remained in the hearts of devotees through her unmatched festive songs that bridged generational gaps with their contemporary and soulful appeal. Having been diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2017, the legendary artist departed for her heavenly abode in November 2024 at AIIMS Delhi at the age of 72, ensuring that her remarkable spirit survives eternally through her unforgettable musical heritage.
Emotional Biharis React to the Inclusion of Sharda Sinha’s Classic Chhath Song in Vvaan
