Mumbai. Singer Mohammed Rafi is universally known, including the young generation. His songs have mezmerized generations. The hits include ‘Babul Ki Duaye Leti jaa,’ ‘Kar Chale HumFida Jaan e tan sathiyon,’ ‘Mein Zindigi ka Saath Nibhata Chala Gaya,’ ‘Rahi Manwa Dukh Chinta,’ ‘Likhe jo khat tujhe,’ ‘Ye Reshmi Julfen,’ ‘Suhani Raat Dhal Chuki,’ ‘Khoya Khoya chand,’ ‘ Baharon Phool Barsaon,’ ‘Teri galiyon mein na rakhe ge kadam,’ etc. He was born on 24 December 1924 in Punjab and died on 31 July 1980. He has been buried in a grave in Santa Cruz,Mumbai.

Bhojpuri action Hero Sudip Pandey says that Mohammed Rafi should be given Bharat Ratna (Jewel of India or Gem of India in English), the country’s highest civilian award.

“Mohammed Rafi Sahab truely deserves Bharat Ratna and there should be no two opinions on it. He is inspiration for many film industry singers. Film Industry should also celebrate 24 December as ‘Mohammed Rafi Jayanti. I go to his burial place every year on the day to offer my respects, but I don’t see any singers from the industry. Some channels do show his profile, but not all. Channels like only item songs and the items girl’s birthdays are celebrated. Why don’t they remember the greatest singers of India on that day?” says Sudip Pandey.