Mohammed Rafi - Songs, Career, Age, Family, Controversies

Table of Content

• Biography
• Age
• Family
• Wife
• Death
• Career
• Top 5 Songs 
• Mohammed Rafi Best Song From Each Decade
• Controversies
• Awards
• Interesting Facts 

Biography

Mohammed Rafi, born on December 24, 1924, in Kotla Sultan Singh, Punjab, was an Indian playback singer who achieved unparalleled success and acclaim in the Hindi film industry. Rafi's journey into the world of music began at a young age when he developed a deep passion for singing. His extraordinary talent and melodious voice caught the attention of music director Shyam Sunder, who provided him with his first opportunity to sing in the film Gul Baloch in 1944.

Rafi's versatile voice allowed him to effortlessly navigate various genres, from soul-stirring ghazals to peppy dance numbers and devotional songs. He collaborated with several renowned music composers, including S.D. Burman, Naushad, Shankar-Jaikishan, and R.D. Burman, among others, and delivered countless chart-topping hits.

With a career spanning over four decades, Mohammed Rafi sang over 4,500 songs in Hindi and several other languages, including Punjabi, Bengali, Telugu, and Urdu. His remarkable vocal range, impeccable control, and ability to convey emotions through his singing made him a true maestro of playback singing.

Rafi's contribution to the Indian film industry is immeasurable. He won several prestigious awards, including six Filmfare Awards, and was honored with the Padma Shri in 1967 for his outstanding contributions to music. Even after his untimely demise on July 31, 1980, Mohammed Rafi's legacy continues to inspire aspiring singers and captivate audiences worldwide. His songs remain timeless classics that evoke nostalgia and touch the hearts of millions, ensuring that his melodious voice will forever be cherished. 

Age

Mohammed Rafi was born on December 24, 1924, in Kotla Sultan Singh, Punjab, British India (now in Punjab, Pakistan). He was born under the zodiac sign of Capricorn.Rafi's birthplace, Kotla Sultan Singh, was a small village in Punjab that later became a part of Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947. It was in this humble setting that Rafi's musical genius was nurtured and flourished.

Family

Mohammed Rafi was born into a humble family in Kotla Sultan Singh, Punjab, British India (now in Punjab, Pakistan). He was the fifth of six sons of Haji Ali Mohammad, who worked as a landlord and contractor, and Allah Rakhi, a housewife. Rafi's family had a deep love for music, and his elder brother, Mohammad Deen, was a known musician himself. In 1945, Mohammed Rafi got married to his cousin Bashira Banu, and they had five sons and three daughters together. Their sons are named Saeed Rafi, Khalid Rafi, Hamid Rafi, Shahid Rafi, and Nasim Rafi. While his daughters' names are Parveen Rafi, Yasmin Rafi, and Rubina Rafi.

Wife

Mohammed Rafi's wife's name was Bashira Banu. She played an essential role in his life and career, providing constant support and encouragement throughout their journey together. Bashira Banu stood by Rafi through thick and thin, supporting him during his rise to fame and helping him navigate the demands of his musical career. As a devoted wife, Bashira Banu took care of their home and family, ensuring a stable and nurturing environment for their children. She played a significant role in managing Rafi's personal and professional life, handling various responsibilities, including scheduling, financial matters, and coordination with music directors and producers.

Death

Mohammed Rafi died at 10:25 pm on July 31, 1980, following a massive heart attack, aged 55. The last song sung by Rafi was for the movie Aas Paas, with music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. One source says it was Shaam Phir Kyun Udaas Hai Dost/Tu Kahin Aas Paas Hai Dost, recorded just hours before his death. Another source says that it was Shehar mein charcha hai from the same film.

Rafi was buried at the Juhu Muslim cemetery and his burial was one of the largest funeral processions in India as over 10,000 people attended his burial. The government of India announced a two-day public mourning in his honour.

In 2010, Rafi's tomb along with many film industry artists such as Madhubala, was demolished to make space for new burials. Fans of Mohammed Rafi, who visit his tomb twice a year to mark his birth and death anniversaries, use the coconut tree that is nearest his grave as a marker.

Career

Mohammed Rafi had a remarkable and illustrious career in the music industry, spanning several decades. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest playback singers in the history of Indian cinema. Rafi's captivating voice, versatility, and ability to express a wide range of emotions made him a beloved and iconic figure in the world of music.

Rafi's career began in the 1940s when he was discovered by music director Shyam Sunder. He made his playback singing debut in the film Gaon Ki Gori (1945) and quickly gained recognition for his soulful renditions. However, it was his collaboration with music director Naushad in the film Baiju Bawra (1952) that catapulted him to fame. The song O Duniya Ke Rakhwale from the film became a massive hit and established him as a leading playback singer.

Throughout his career, Mohammed Rafi worked with numerous renowned music directors, including S.D. Burman, R.D. Burman, Shankar-Jaikishan, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, and many others. His ability to adapt to different musical styles and genres allowed him to excel in a wide range of songs, including romantic melodies, qawwalis, ghazals, bhajans, and patriotic numbers.

Rafi's voice had a mesmerizing quality that effortlessly conveyed the emotions of the characters on screen. His flawless and emotive renditions added depth and soul to the songs, making them timeless classics. He had an incredible vocal range and could effortlessly transition from high-pitched notes to smooth and soothing melodies.

Over the course of his career, Mohammed Rafi recorded thousands of songs in various languages, including Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, Bengali, and more. His songs touched the hearts of millions of people and continue to be cherished by music lovers around the world.

Mohammed Rafi's career was not only defined by his extraordinary talent but also by his professionalism and dedication. He was known for his punctuality, discipline, and commitment to delivering the best performances. His humility, warmth, and genuine love for music endeared him to fans and industry peers alike.

Sadly, Mohammed Rafi passed away on July 31, 1980, leaving behind an unmatched musical legacy. His songs continue to be an integral part of Indian cinema, enchanting audiences with their timeless appeal and emotional depth. Mohammed Rafi's contributions to the music industry remain unparalleled, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest voices in Indian music history.

Top 5 Songs 

Chaudhvin Ka Chand Ho 

Play

 This iconic song is a beautiful expression of love, set against the backdrop of a moonlit night. Mohammed Rafi's velvety voice delicately weaves through the melody, capturing the essence of longing and romance. The song's poetic lyrics and Rafi's impeccable rendition make it a timeless masterpiece that continues to evoke emotions and transport listeners to a world of enchantment.

Yeh Reshmi Zulfein 

 Known for its catchy tune and playful lyrics, this song showcases Mohammed Rafi's versatility as he effortlessly transitions between different vocal styles. His smooth and charismatic voice adds charm to the song, capturing the essence of youthful infatuation. The composition, combined with Rafi's vibrant rendition, creates a captivating and joyous atmosphere.

Kya Hua Tera Wada 

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 This soul-stirring song is a poignant reflection on lost love and shattered dreams. Mohammed Rafi's emotive vocals tug at the heartstrings, conveying the pain and longing embedded in the lyrics. The depth of emotion in his voice resonates with listeners, making it an unforgettable melody that has stood the test of time.

Likhe Jo Khat Tujhe 

 A song of unrequited love, it portrays the emotions of longing and nostalgia. Mohammed Rafi's mellifluous voice adds a sense of melancholy, perfectly capturing the yearning expressed in the lyrics. His flawless rendition and the song's captivating melody make it a poignant and unforgettable composition.

Baharon Phool Barsao 

Play

 This enchanting song celebrates the arrival of spring and the blossoming of love. Mohammed Rafi's velvety voice dances with the melody, infusing it with warmth and joy. The song's lilting tune, combined with Rafi's magical vocals, creates an uplifting and enchanting experience for the listeners.

Mohammed Rafi Best Song From Each Decade

Controversies

Although a thorough gentleman throughout his career, Rafi got embroiled into a controversy with fellow singer Lata Mangeshkar not once, but twice. First, during 1962, the two had a confrontation regarding the demands for royalty for playback singers. Lataji claimed that the playback singers are entitled to half of the 5% royalty claimed by the producers from the songs recorded by them for a film. She wanted Rafi Saab’s support on the issue, but he differed from her by stating that a singer’s association with the song ended when they were paid by the producer. As the financial backer of the project, the financial gains are to be returned to the producer and not to the singers who were paid appropriately for their work. Lataji took offence to this and became hostile in her behavior towards Rafi finally declaring her unwillingness to work with him. However, music director Jaikishen negotiated a reconciliation between the two and they duo did work after that.

The second point of contention happened when the Guinness Book of World Record published Lata Mangeshkar’s name as the artist recording a maximum number of songs. He sent the Guinness authorities a letter challenging the fact and stating that he was the one who had sung a greater number of songs in comparison. The Guinness authorities did not take down the listing, but they amended it with the mention of Mohammed Rafi’s name and his contention.

Awards

National Film Awards

1967: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Baharon Phool Barsao from the film Suraj

1977: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Kya Hua Tera Wada from the film Hum Kisise Kum Naheen

Filmfare Awards

1961: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Chaudhvin Ka Chand Ho from the film Chaudhvin Ka Chand

1966: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Chahunga Main Tujhe from the film Dosti

1971: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Teri Galiyon Mein from the film Hawas

1976: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Tere Mere Beech Mein from the film Ek Duuje Ke Liye

Bengal Film Journalists' Association Awards

1978: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Kya Hua Tera Wada from the film Hum Kisise Kum Naheen

Maharashtra State Film Awards

1964: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Mann Re Tu Kaahe Na Dheer Dhare from the film Chitralekha

Uttar Pradesh Film Journalists' Association Awards

1962: Best Male Playback Singer for the song Chaudhvin Ka Chand Ho from the film Chaudhvin Ka Chand

Interesting Facts 

• Mohammed Rafi's nickname was Pheeko

• He originally belonged to Kotla Sultan Singh, a village in Amritsar district and he later moved to Lahore with his family

• At the age of 13, Mohammed Rafi made his first public appearance in Lahore where he featured K. L. Saigal

• In 1944, Mohammed Rafi made his playback singing debut in Lahore along with Zeenat Begum in a duet, 'Soniye Nee, Heeriye Nee'. He was also invited by All India Radio Ladhore to sing for them

• Mohammed Rafi debuted in Hindi films in 1945 with the film Gaon Ki Gori

• In 1948, after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, Husanlal Bhagatram, Rajendra Krishan and Mohammed Rafi created the song, 'Suno Suno Ae Duniyawalon, Bapuji Ki Amar Kahani' overnight. Mohammed Rafi was even invited by Jawaharlal Nehru to sing at his house

• Mohammed Rafi has sung about 4,516 Hindi songs, 112 other language songs and about 328 personal songs

• Mohammed Rafi sang in many languages which include Assamese, Konkani, Bhojpuri, English, Persian, Dutch, Spanish, Telugu, Maithili, Urdu, Gujarati, Punjabi, Marathi, Bengali etc.