At the 55th International Film Festival of India, the centenary session Aasman Se Aaya Farishta: Mohammad Rafi, The King of Melody drew a captivated crowd at Kala Academy in Panjim as hundreds gathered to hear the renowned panel of Sonu Nigam, Subhash Ghai, Anuradha Paudwal, and Shahid Rafi, all united to celebrate the late legendary singer.

Sonu Nigam paid a heartfelt tribute to Mohammad Rafi by performing several of the legendary singer’s iconic songs in his soulful voice. He also reflected on Rafi’s extraordinary gift to instil emotions into every note, breathing life into the characters he sang for.

Director Subhash Ghai and singer Anuradha Paudwal also marvelled at Rafi’s unparalleled legacy of thousands of songs across four remarkable decades. During the event, Shahid Rafi, the son of the legendary playback singer Mohammad Rafi, announced plans to produce a biopic on his father’s illustrious life. Shahid Rafi said that the film will be based on both the personal life and professional journey of Mohammad Rafi.

This year IFFI is celebrating the centenary of four iconic figures of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor, Mohammad Rafi, Tapan Sinha, and Akkineni Nageshwara Rao. While sessions honouring Raj Kapoor, Mohammad Rafi, and Akkineni Nageshwara Rao have already concluded, the tribute to renowned filmmaker Tapan Sinha is scheduled for tomorrow.