Mohammad Rafi, often regarded as one of the greatest playback singers in Indian cinema, holds an irreplaceable place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. As we commemorate his 100th birth anniversary, it is essential to reflect on his legacy, the golden voice that brought countless songs to life, and his immense contribution to Indian music.
Born on December 24, 1924, in Kotla Sultan Singh, Punjab (then British India), Rafi's journey from a small village to becoming the voice of the nation is both inspiring and legendary.
EARLY LIFE AND MUSICAL JOURNEY
Mohammad Rafi discovered his love for music at an early age. Encouraged by his family, he trained under eminent classical musicians, including Ustad Abdul Wahid Khan and Pandit Jiwan Lal Mattoo. His big break came when music director Shyam Sunder noticed his talent and gave him his first opportunity to sing in the Punjabi film Gul Baloch (1944).
Soon after, Rafi moved to Mumbai, then Bombay, and made his debut in Hindi cinema with the song "Aji Dil Ho Kaabu Mein" from the film Gaon Ki Gori (1945).
It was in the 1940s and 1950s that Rafi's career truly blossomed. He collaborated with legendary composers such as Naushad, Shankar Jaikishan, S.D. Burman, and O.P. Nayyar, delivering songs that would become timeless classics. Rafi's versatility allowed him to adapt his voice to a variety of genres, moods, and characters, making him the go-to playback singer for actors across generations.
THE GOLDEN VOICE OF BOLLYWOOD
Rafi's voice was unique in its ability to convey a spectrum of emotions, from romance and joy to sorrow and patriotism. His collaborations with music directors and lyricists resulted in songs that remain evergreen. Below are some of his most iconic songs:
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