Death anniversary of golden voice: Rafi & his 'often not heard' melodious songs

Rafi was honored with Padma Shiri and was even felicitated with six Filmfare Awards and one National Film Award.

Image: Mohammad Rafi

New Delhi: The evergreen voice of one of the renowned Bollywood playback singer, Mohammad Rafi, still echoes in the hearts and minds of the fans. Today marks the 37th death anniversary of this legend who enlightened the entire Bollywood industry through his melodious voice. Born on 24th December 1924, Rafi was honored with Padma Shiri and was even felicitated with six Filmfare Awards and one National Film Award. The legend began his singing career by chanting the notes of a fakir, who sung in his village. But who knew that one day this voice will reach to the ears of entire India. Rafi was known for his versatility and his talent of molding the voice as per the mood of the song. He contributed not only patriotic songs to the Indian cinema but also gave a number of melodious sad songs, romantic songs, ghazals and even bhajans. Though he took his last breath on 31st July 1980, he still remains the eternal voice and soul of the Bollywood industry. Let's relive some of the songs of this golden voice: In 1945, he recorded his first Hindi song  'Aji Dil Ho Kaaboo Mein' for film Gaon Ki Gori However, he was established as an 'international star' when his song 'Man tadpat haridarshan ko aaj'came out. The 1950's and 1960's were unquestionably the golden age of Hindi film music. His playback even enhanced the careers of many actors like Shammi Kapoor, Rajendra Kumar, Biswajeet and many more. He gave many famous hit songs like 'Kya hua tera wada', 'Mere sapno ki rani', 'Baharon Phool Barsao' and the list is here. However, let's also take a look on some of his real gems which magnificently showcase his remarkable talent and are not often heard: Tera Husn rahe mera ishq rahe (Movie: Do Dil) Carvaan guzar gaya (Movie: Nai Umar ki Nai Fasal) Kahan ja rahe the (Movie: Love Marriage) Hum tum jisse kehta hai (Movie: Kagaz Ke Phool) Video courtesy: Ajay Yuvraj /YouTube