Some voices never fade.
Decades after Mohammed Rafi left the world, his songs continue to transcend generations, languages and borders. They still carry the warmth, romance and emotional depth that defined the golden age of Indian cinema.
On Thursday evening, that enduring legacy found a heartfelt tribute in Dhaka. The Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) of the High Commission of India turned an ordinary gathering into a celebration of one of South Asia’s greatest musical legends.
Organised to mark the legendary playback singer’s death anniversary, the programme took place at the High Commission of India in Baridhara. Diplomats, artistes and music lovers came together, united by memories of a voice that continues to resonate across the subcontinent.
The evening began on a graceful note with acclaimed Kolkata-based vocalist Priyangbada Banerjee. Her expressive renditions of Borne Gondhe Chhonde Gitite, Je Chhilo Drishtir Shimanay, Rimjhim Barsat and Jo Wada Kiya Woh Nibhana Parega, among others, instantly drew the audience into Rafi’s timeless musical world. Trained in Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul Geeti, Indian classical, folk and contemporary music, Banerjee performed with remarkable poise and sensitivity. Her maternal roots trace back to Faridpur, adding a quiet personal connection to the evening.
The atmosphere gathered momentum when renowned Bangladeshi vocalist and CloseUp 1 star Md Rashed Uddin took the stage. One after another, he delivered some of Mohammed Rafi’s most cherished classics. Songs such as Chandi Ka Chand Ho, Mera Mehboob Aaya Hai, Chahunga Main Tujhe Saanjh Savere, Ehsan Tera Hoga Mujh Par, Mere Mehboob Qayamat Hogi, O Duniya Ke Rakhwale, Suhani Raat, Hum Tum Juda Na Honge and O Door Ke Musafir carried the audience through romance, longing, devotion and nostalgia. Each performance was met with warm applause as listeners sang along quietly or simply closed their eyes to savour familiar melodies.
Rashed also added a personal touch to the programme. He performed his widely admired song Maa before returning to Rafi’s repertoire with the legendary singer’s memorable Bengali song Pakhitar Buke Jeno Teer Mero Na. The performance gently reminded the audience that Rafi’s musical legacy extends beyond Hindi cinema and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Bengali listeners.
Speaking at the programme, Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi said Rafi’s timeless songs continue to inspire generations around the world. He described the legendary singer’s humility, generosity and unwavering dedication to music as qualities that made him not only an icon but also an enduring source of inspiration.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmud Khaiyam attended the event with his spouse. Eminent cultural and business personalities, media representatives, music students and music lovers also joined the commemorative evening.
More than a memorial, the programme became a celebration of music’s unique ability to cross borders and connect people. Long after the final applause faded, Rafi’s melodies seemed to linger in the air, reminding everyone why his voice continues to live on through timeless songs, treasured memories and every listener who discovers their magic anew.
