At the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, Mohammad Rafi was honored with a special tribute session, Asmaan Se Aaya Farishta. Renowned singer Sonu Nigam praised Rafi’s unmatched versatility and artistry, celebrating his legacy as the King of Melody.
Sonu highlighted Mohammad Rafi’s incredible ability to adjust his voice to suit actors from different generations and styles. He pointed out how Rafi’s voice worked perfectly for a wide range of stars, including Dilip Kumar, Johnny Walker, Mehmood, and Rishi Kapoor, effortlessly matching their on-screen personas.
He also praised Rafi’s remarkable ability to adapt his voice for different genres, including devotional songs. He expressed amazement at how, when Rafi sang bhajans, it felt as if a Hindu was singing with deep devotion, despite him being a Muslim, highlighting the singer’s unique ability to convey emotion and spirit through his voice.
The singer continued to highlight Rafi’s exceptional range, saying that not many singers could match his versatility. He pointed out that while some could sing Sufi songs well, they couldn’t perform bhajans. Rafi, however, could sing songs for all occasions—from Ramzan to Raksha Bandhan, happy or sad songs, even the popular “Happy Birthday” song. Sonu marveled at Rafi’s ability to do it all, calling him a “volcano” whose talent only erupted when he sang into the microphone.
Mohammad Rafi is celebrated for some of Indian cinema’s most iconic songs, such as Main Zindagi Ka Saath Nibhata Chala Gaya, Kaun Hai Jo Sapno Me Aaya, Parda Hai Parda, Gulabi Aankhein, and Kya Se Kya Ho Gaya.
