On December 24, 2024, India marks the 100th birth anniversary of one of its most legendary playback singers, Mohammed Rafi. Renowned for his unmatched versatility and timeless voice, Rafi remains an icon in the world of Bollywood music. His rich legacy is evident in the numerous hits he delivered for Bollywood stars like Dev Anand, Shammi Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan, and Rishi Kapoor. Despite passing away in 1980 at the age of 55, Rafi’s music continues to touch hearts across generations.
Rafi was born on December 24, 1924, in Kotla Sultan Singh, a small village near Amritsar, to Allah Rakhi and Haji Ali Mohammad. He was the second of six brothers in a Punjabi Jat Muslim family. Rafi’s journey into music began after his family relocated to Lahore, where his elder brother owned a barber shop. As a young boy, Rafi showed little interest in academics but was drawn to music. His passion for singing ignited when he heard a Sufi Fakir perform in their village, a moment that would shape his future in the music world.
In his early years, Rafi helped his brother in the shop while quietly nurturing his love for music. His move to Bombay was the turning point in his career, and soon he was recognized for his unique voice. Rafi’s musical career spanned decades, during which he recorded songs across multiple genres. From romantic melodies and patriotic anthems to soulful ghazals and devotional bhajans, Rafi’s versatility was unmatched. His collaborations with legendary composers like Shankar Jaikishan, S.D. Burman and Laxmikant-Pyarelal resulted in some of the most memorable songs in Bollywood history.
In recognition of his contributions to Indian music, Rafi was honored with the Padma Shri in 1967. His songs, such as Abhi Na Jaao Chod Kar from Hum Dono and Ude Jab Jab Zulfein Teri from Naya Daur, continue to be fan favorites and are cherished for their emotional depth and beauty. Mohammed Rafi’s voice, which effortlessly captured a range of emotions, will always be remembered as one of the most important elements of Bollywood music. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his fans and in the timeless songs that continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike.
