Mohammed Rafi: From Fakir's Influence to 'Angel of Voice', Sang 26,000 Songs

• Legendary singer Mohammed Rafi was inspired by a fakir's voice in his childhood, leading him to a musical journey despite his conservative family.
• He sang approximately 26,000 songs in 11 Indian languages, mastering diverse emotions and genres, earning him the title 'Angel of Voice'.
• Rafi Sahab shared a special bond with Dilip Kumar, who felt Rafi's voice was his own, praising his ability to adapt to film characters and moods.
• He famously encouraged a nervous Saira Banu during the recording of the superhit duet 'Aaj Ki Raat Yeh Kaisi Raat' for the 1967 film 'Aman'.
• Rafi passed away on July 31, 1980, at 55, after recording his last song for 'Aas Paas'; his funeral saw 10,000 attendees amidst heavy rain.

Why It Matters: Mohammed Rafi, inspired by a fakir, became an 'Angel of Voice', singing 26,000 songs and leaving an immortal legacy.