Mohammed Rafi is a shade above other singers: Justice Markandey Katju

By Justice Markandey Katju-

Justice Markandey Katju

(Justice Markandey Katju is a former Judge, Supreme Court of India, and former Chairman of Press Council of India. The views expressed are his own.)

Today, 24th December, is the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Indian singer Mohammed Rafi, whom I regard as the greatest Hindi film playback singer of all times.

There have been many great singers in Hindi films e.g. KL Saigal, Talat Mahmood, Mukesh, Kishore Kumar, Mahendra Kapoor, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, etc., but I regard Mohammed Rafi as a shade above all, just as there have been many great Urdu poets, but Mirza Ghalib is a shade above everyone else.

Several qualities contributed to Rafi’s legendary status.

Versatility: Rafi had an incredible ability to adapt his voice to various genres, including classical, folk, romantic, and patriotic songs. He could sing for different moods and styles, making him a go-to singer for many music directors.

Emotional expression: His ability to convey deep emotions through his singing is one of his hallmark traits. Whether it was joy, sorrow, or romance, Rafi’s voice could resonate with listeners, making the songs memorable.

Technical skill: Rafi possessed exceptional vocal technique, including control over pitch, breath, and modulation. His training in classical music allowed him to execute complex compositions with ease.

Distinct voice quality: His rich, melodious voice had a unique timbre that set him apart from other singers. This distinctiveness made his songs instantly recognizable.

Collaboration with great composers: Rafi worked with some of the most renowned music composers in the industry, such as S.D. Burman, Laxmikant-Pyarelal, and R.D. Burman. These collaborations produced timeless classics that showcased his talent.

Diverse song repertoire: He sang in multiple languages, including Hindi, Urdu, Punjabi, and Bengali, which expanded his reach and appeal to a broader audience.

Longevity and consistency: Rafi’s career spanned several decades, during which he consistently delivered hit songs. His ability to
remain relevant across different eras of music is a testament to his talent.

Cultural impact: His songs often became anthems of their time, reflecting the sentiments of the audience. Many of his tracks are
still cherished and played today, highlighting his lasting influence on Indian music.

These qualities combined to make Mohammad Rafi a legendary figure in music, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations

Among his numerous songs, these are some of my favorites:

Jab Bhi Yeh Dil Udas Hota Hai

Kaun Hai Jo Sapnon Mein Aaya

Likhe Jo Khat Tujhe

Man Tarpat Hari Darsan Ko Aaj

Tu Ganga Ki Mauj

(Photo courtesy: Screengrab from YouTube)

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