IPS Officer Shalabh Sinha: The Bastar Superintendent Whose Kishore Kumar Melody Captivated the Nation
In a heart-warming moment that blended public service with artistic grace, IPS officer Shalabh Kumar Sinha, the Superintendent of Police of Bastar district in Chhattisgarh, became an overnight social media sensation after a video of him singing the evergreen classic “Rimjhim Gire Sawan” at Jagdalpur’s Dalpat Sagar went viral. His soft yet steady voice, paired with the natural beauty of the lake, created a scene that felt straight out of a movie, instantly captivating onlookers and online viewers alike.
A Serene Weekend Turns Into a Viral Moment
Dalpat Sagar is known for hosting weekly open-stage evenings where visitors are encouraged to display their talents. During one such relaxed outing with his family, Mr. Sinha spontaneously stepped forward, picked up the microphone, and delivered a soulful rendition of the Kishore Kumar hit.
The audience—comprising local residents, tourists, and evening walkers—gradually gathered around, many recording the unexpected performance. Moments later, these clips spread across social media platforms, drawing immense praise for the officer’s modesty, musical flair, and easy connection with the community.
A Policeman With a Passion for Music and Public Service
Shalabh Sinha belongs to the 2014 batch of the Chhattisgarh cadre. Born and raised in Jaipur district, he initially pursued mechanical engineering and later worked briefly in the private sector. However, driven by a deep desire to serve society, he resigned from his job and dedicated himself to preparing for the civil services examination.
After four determined attempts, he secured a place in the prestigious Indian Police Service—an achievement that highlights his perseverance and strong sense of purpose.
Leading Bastar With Development-Oriented Policing
For nearly 18 months, Mr. Sinha has been at the helm of Bastar district—an area known for its complex security environment and Naxal-affected regions. His approach blends firm policing with developmental outreach.
In earlier postings at Sukma and Kanker, he played a crucial role in improving security infrastructure.
He supervised the establishment of new security camps in remote areas.
He supported key road-building projects deep inside forested zones, opening new routes for mobility, healthcare access, and administrative outreach.
These measures have helped enhance trust with tribal communities, strengthen state presence, and improve the overall developmental landscape of the region.
A Reputation Built on Sensitivity and Professionalism
Mr. Sinha’s commitment to empathetic policing goes back to his initial assignments.
As a probationer in Durg and later while serving as CSP in Bilaspur, he gained recognition for balancing firmness with a humane touch.
He frequently emphasizes that police personnel exist to serve citizens, encouraging people not to hesitate in approaching the force with grievances.
He has also warned the public about fraudulent social media profiles falsely created in his name, highlighting the importance of cyber-awareness.
A Song That Revived Memories and Revealed the Man Behind the Uniform
The track he performed—“Rimjhim Gire Sawan,” a 1979 gem from the film Manzil, starring Amitabh Bachchan and sung by Kishore Kumar—is cherished across generations. His heartfelt interpretation reignited nostalgia for many viewers, while also showcasing the artistic, approachable, and compassionate dimensions of an officer working in one of India’s most sensitive regions.
Through this simple act of singing, IPS Shalabh Sinha not only won the internet’s affection but also reminded people that behind the uniform stands a deeply human, multi-talented individual committed to serving both the state and its citizens.
