Paying tribute to Mohammad Rafi

KARACHI: Mohammad Rafi was one of the legends of Indian cinema, known for his major contribution in playback singing and is a major influence on musicians in the subcontinent.

Hum TV and the Karachi Arts Council organised a musical soiree this week titled ‘Remembering Mohammad Rafi - Yaad Na Jaye’ at a bedecked Arts Council auditorium.

It was an evening geared for music enthusiasts, and featured covers of some of Rafi’s greatest hits. The performers included fans of Rafi and his students.

One of the highlights of the night was Mohammad Ali’s mesmerising performance of “Kia Hua Tera Waada, Woh Qasm Woh Irada” from the film Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahi. The audience asked for a repeat performance from the young Ali, who seemingly had brought Rafi back to life.

There were some low moments too. Mazhar Iqbal, who sang “Dil Mein Chupa Ke” from the film Aan, disappointed as did Ameer Ali and Zareen Hyder with their rendition of “Jhoolay Mein Pawan ke Aayi Bahar”.

At least 23 songs were performed at the event, including those by Mohammad Rafi’s former students. Mohammad Ifrahim covered “O Dunia Ke Rakhwalay” from the film Baijibawra and Anwar Rafi who performed several songs including “Chaudhween Ka Chaand” and “Zindagi Bhar Nahi Bhoolaygi Woh Barsaat Ki Raat”. He also performed a duet with Zareen Hyder - “Jo Wada Kia Woh Nibhana Parega” from the film Taj Mahal.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 25^th, 2010.