Doha: Rafi Ki Yadein Brings Alive Golden Era of Bollywood
Pics: Alexis Castelino
Daijiworld Media Network – Doha (GA)
Doha, May 27: It has been years since legendary singer Mohd Rafi left us to join heavenly choir. But his legend still lives on and the void created by his demise is yet to be filled. He belonged to a rare breed of singers, who had not only mesmerized millions during his illustrious career but has continued inspiring thousands even now, long after his demise.
Mangalorean Mohammad Haneef is one such talented singer who is inspired by Mohd Rafi. Known for his mellifluous voice and exhilarating performances, Mohd Haneef has come a long way in establishing in one of the premier singers from the coastal belt. He has the rare distinction of having performed with some of best singers of our generation such as Usha Uthup, S P Balasubraymanyam and Udit Narayan. And every time he walks on to the stage, he brings back melody king Rafi through his golden old numbers.
The weekend audience at Doha cinema was witness to this on Thursday May 26, 2011 evening. As Mohd Haneef in the company of equally-renowned and versatile Sangeetha of Puna belted out some of the hit songs of yesteryears that defined the bollywood music of 70s and 80s, the audience was left spellbound.
The melodious rendition of super duper numbers such as ‘Parda hai parda’, ‘Likhi jo khat tuje’, ‘Koi jab rah nap aye, ‘Yadon ki baarat’, ‘Yamma Yamma’ had the audience asking for more. Both Haneef and Sangeetha were joined by local singers Jamshed from Pakistan and Mohd.Thoyyib. In all it was perfect retro evening that took the audience to the golden era of bollywood.
But the icing on the cake was the energetic and unique compering of Mangalore’s chocolate boy Sahil Zaheer. There has never been doubt about Sahil’s abilities and but his uniqueness lies in the fact that each time he takes up the stage, he sounds fresh and new. His command over Hindi, Urdu, Kannada, English, Malayalam, Tulu and his remarkable oratory skills are unmatched. But during events such as this his shayaris that keep the audience ever engrossed and enlivens the shows. He was at his best again and lived up to his top billing.
The evening ‘Rafi Ki Yadein’ was organized by Doha Waves and Property Infra Tech of Mangalore was the main sponsor of the event. In the absence of Rohan Monteiro, Property Infra Tech was represented by marketing manager Anish Pasha and project manager Rudolph D'Souza. Two lucky winners chosen through lucky draw were presented with a Black Berry phone each by Property Infra Tech. Doha Bank CEO Seetaraman was the chief guest of the evening. He was honoured on the occasion for his outstanding contribution to the society through charity and social work.
K M Varghese, president of Indian Cultural Centre and Anil Nawtal, second secretary of Indian Embassy in Doha, Abdulla Monu of Euro Parts were the other guests present on the occasion. The newly-designed website of Doha Waves too was launched on the occasion.