Chahoonga Main Tujhe Sanjh Savere…
“Chahoonga Main Tujhe Saanjh Savere,” sung by the legendary Mohammed Rafi, is a timeless classic from the film Dosti (1964). The song, composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal with lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri, is celebrated for its emotional depth and Rafi’s mesmerizing rendition. The track earned Rafi the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 1965 and is considered an anthem among his fans, capturing the essence of friendship and love in the movie. The song’s enduring popularity reflects Rafi’s unmatched versatility and the brilliance of the composition.
By: H.A.K. Walijah
Many songs of Rafi Saab are ceaseless but some have achieved the status of immortality, means it can be heard million of times even though it does sound fresh and vibrant. You may call it the miracle of the singer’s voice or the marvelous composition or the magical words embedded in the lyrics that suited the mood of the song.
Rafi saab had sung thousands of songs which are considered now as milestones in film singing profession. Some have achieved the status of evergreen and all time greats, in which some are solos and some are duets (sang with both male and female singers).
During the 50’s and 60’s Rafi saab ruled the Hindi film industry as the most sought-after playback singer, 70-80 percent of songs composed by the music directors during those years were sung by Rafi saab along with two major female singers – Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle. The songs had sung in maximum genres with colorful versatility which was the lion’s share of Rafi saab, no other singer even comes closer in that range.
Mohammed Rafi’s songs ranged from traditional classical melodies to patriotic songs, artistic Ghazals, sad and romantic melodies, traditional qawwalis, ghazals and bhajans… like that you may go on counting various genres and what not? Rafi saab bagged 6 Filmfare Awards in his lifetime for his excellent and magnificent singing and had 22 nominations between 1960 -1980.
Dosti (1964) a classic Hindi film was a story focused on the friendship between two boys, one blind (singer) and one crippled (Mouth Organ Player). While both boys realize that they are lonely in this world and they had no choice other than to help each other in order to survive in this cruel world. Thus the true bond of their friendship surfaces. While the blind boy is also looking for his sister (Baby Farida), his friendship with crippled boy gets stronger each passing day. Dosti fetched the Filmfare award for best picture; and almost all the songs in that movie were super duper hits. There was a song Chahoonga main tujhe which bagged the Filmfare Best Male Playback Singer award to Rafi Saab. Now I speculate that the Mukhda (opening line) of that song Chahoonga main tujhe sanjh savere has become the anthem of all Rafi lovers, they proudly pronounce that line Chahoonga main tujhe sanjh savere to express their immense love & passion towards Rafi Saab.
The Filmfare award in 1965 went to Dosti for five categories including three categories namely – music director, singer and lyricist gone to Dosti for the song Chahoonga main tujhe sanj savere –
Best singer – Mohammad Rafi
Best music directors – Laxmikant Pyarelal
Best lyricist – Majrooh sultanpuri
Chahoonga main tujhe evokes lots of emotions to the listener. Touchy lyrics were penned by great Lyricist Majrooh Sultanpuri. Most importantly, this song was brilliantly rendered by Melody King Mohd. Rafi Saab and was composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal.
The music is exceptional with Rafi Saab at his very best with as many as five great solos to his credit. This movie gave a lot of boost to the careers of the Music directors – Laxmikant & Pyarelal who did take a lot of credit for the brilliant music. The songs were the best part of movie depicting various shades of life (mood and emotions). I consider the five songs are the marvelous and precious gems in Hindi film music which will be heard many many years to come.
- Chahoonga Main Tujhe Saanj Savere
- Mera To Jo Bhi Kadam Hai
- Jaane Walon Zara
- Rahi Manwa Dukh Ki Chinta
- Meri Dosti Mera Pyar
No wonder the film won all five best Filmfare awards of 1965. There couldn’t be a better lyrics – Majrooh Sultanpuri and better voice – Mohd. Rafi . What is best about Dosti is the music — just mesmerizing — even after forty five years since it was heard first time. Once one hear those songs can understand very well the mood of the each song that was sung in the best mood and superb emotions applied to the situation in the film.
Rafi Saab had given his golden voice to many unknown actors, even in Dosti two boys played the part of friends were Sudhir Kumar and Sushil Kumar. All of the songs lip-synced by Sudhir Kumar (Mohan), the blind boy. Even as a unique coincidence Dosti is the only movie in Hindi Cinema which made a record for the biggest hit without heroine. The song – Chahoonga main tujhe sanjh savere was picturised on the blind boy played by Sudhir kumar as Mohan.
The emotions he portrays and the feeling of comradeship which it brings out are simply a work of pure class. It’s a story about friendship and in many ways dignity and self-respect. It is one of the best movies because of the classic music by Laxmikant Pyarelal with the soaring voice of Rafi Saab make this movie a top classic hit.
The strange fact about the movie was that, it was low-budget and no major actor was ready to act in the movie. It was expected to undergo a huge flop, but due to the soulful songs rendered by Rafi Saab and its brilliant acting and awesome story it went a major hit.
As there are many interesting anecdotes connected with this song Chahoonga main tujhe which have been well preserved & archived in mohdrafi.com as a precious memorabilia.
When both Laxmikant Pyarelal and Majrooh Sultanpuri sat together to compose the songs and the result was history. Rafi Saab song “Chahoonga main tujhe saanj savere“, and other songs moved the hearts of the audience.
Rafi Saab was very much impressed with the compositions of Laxmikant Pyarelal that he had taken just one rupee for singing the song because it was the custom of a singer to take something in return for a professional song and the rest of the money he handed over to Pyarelal ji to share with Laxmikant ji. This one example shows the generosity of Rafi Saab.
In fact, all songs of Dosti were very melodious and were brilliantly composed by Laxmikant Pyarelal. In fact, the music was so good that Laxmikant Pyarelal won the most coveted Filmfare Award for Best Music for 1965 against the stiff competition from the Film : Sangam composed by Shankar-Jaikishen and another Film :Woh Kaun Thi composed by Madan Mohan.
All 3 films were nominated for the year 1964 for the Best Music and finally “Dosti” music edged out to win Filmfare award beating both Shankar-Jaikishen and Madan Mohan. It was a shocker to Shankar-Jaikishen. Laxmikant-Pyarelal won their first Filmfare award for Best Music and they deserved it.
The song Chahoonga main tujhe sanj savere tune was composed much earlier than any Parasmani song by the duo. Many of the films that they signed before Parasmani failed to be made and they were dejected with the hindi film industry. They could not find a situation in their early films to use the song properly.
The song was composed with Lata Mangeshkar in mind. They had such reverence for her that they wanted all their songs sung by Lata. During the musical sitting of Dosti, Laxmikant sang this song out for Rafi at the very tail end of their session before departing Rafi’s house as a song they kept in their pocket as a reserve.
Majrooh Sultanpuri and Pyarelal were present. They were very apprehensive when they drove to Rafi’s mansion early that day not knowing if the great singer would agree to sing for a low-budget movie and for such young, struggling music directors such as LP. As soon as they entered, Rafi put them at ease and was very cordial. Having already been blown away by the Dosti numbers he had just heard, Mohd Rafi who was thrilled that he had three full solos that he agreed to sing for a small fee was completely bowled over by Chahoonga main tujhe. He took this song and superbly rendered it for LP and told them that this song would be a big hit in Dosti. LP replied that there was no situation in the movie for this song. They did not want to use it. Rafi insisted persistently (while making the song greater every time he rendered it) and said that he would sing all the songs for free if Chahoonga main tujhe was included in the film. LP returned back and had to make the writer, producer, director re-write the story to include Chahoonga main tujhe as a primary song in the film.
R.D. Burman played all the mouth organ pieces for Dosti. For playing mouth organ in the interlude of the song “Jaanewalon Zara”, Laxmikant-Pyarelal invited R. D. Burman who did full justice to the song by playing very beautifully his most favorite instrument that is mouth organ. R.D.Burman also played mouth organ in few other songs of Dosti. R.D.Burman came to play only because of his friendship with Laxmikant Pyarelal.
The songs of Dosti were recorded including Chahoonga main Tujhe. LP concentrated on all their other numbers in Dosti and did not give any special care for this song. As we all know Rafi sang all these songs superbly, and Dosti is considered to be a landmark in Hindi Film music.
When Rafi Saab was told that he has to give playback to two young teen-aged boys, he was confused on how to match his rich voice to suite two young boys. With other heroes, he always knew how to modulate his voice to suit a particular hero say Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand or Shammi Kapoor so as to be in sync with their style.
So Rafi had to work very hard before rehearsals of Dosti Songs so as to match his voice match those two young boys. As we all can see, Rafi succeeded in his efforts and whenever we listen to any of Dosti songs picturized on those two young boys, it fits them very well as if they are singing themselves.
The movie was released and took India by storm in 1964. It was not just Mumbai (Bombay), but all across the country the songs of Dosti swept and swayed the masses. All the way from East-to-West and North-to-South, people would stand by radios just to hear the songs of this film. During the same year, Raj Kapoor’s prestigious Sangam was released with music by Shankar Jaiksihan.
People liked the Sangam songs, but the songs of Dosti overtook every other film. Rafi Saab’s prediction had come true. He moved even higher up in popularity and Laxmikant Pyarelal where catapulted to the forefront of popular Hindi film music and never looked back.
LP won Filmfare Best Music Director Award for Dosti in 1965. Mohd Rafi won the best singer award. The award was conveyed to them during the early morning hours on announcement day by music director C. Ramachandra (one of their gurus) who banged on their door and called out get up you donkeys. You have won !!!. They were bewildered! won which award and from whom? When they were told, they could not believe their ears.
Shankar Jaikishan was their favourite MD and they had won over SJ. They had really arrived in the music scene. Laxmikant emulated Jaikishan in every way. He was in awe of Jaikishan for many years. He dressed like Jaikishan (flashy expensive shirts, tight pants, collar up all the time), talked like Jaikishan and wore his watch on his right wrist.
It is a coincidence that in the same year 1965, Rafi Saab was honored by the Government of India with the coveted Padmashri Award as well as National Film Award for the Best Male Playback Singer for this song “Chahooga main Tujhe“. I believe this great song will never be outdated even after forty five years it sounds fresh and melodious it is because of sheer magical voice of Rafi Saab and beautiful composition of LP and wonderful lyrics of Majrooh Saab.
Watch Chahoonga Mein Tujeh on Youtube.
Finally I would like to acknowledge my gratitude & thanks to writers and readers alike to borrow most of the anecdotes written above from the earlier write-ups appeared in this forum to suit the milieu of this article.
INVITING FRIENDS TO DIL PUKARE AA RE, AA RE, AA RE on YOUTUBE….
musical held at mumbai’s bhaidas hall on dec.11 a mohd rafi-lata special.
please type binu nair and the visuals and songs by mukesh bhanushali would appear.
thanks.
from the rafi foundation, mumbai : cell : 9833 250 701
post 45 – Binu ji
It is very nice of you to share your personal experience with all rafi lovers. I was just thrilled to read your wonderful visit to pyarelal ji.
Long live Rafi Saab
Dear Haldar Sahab,
it’s wonderful to see you here and read your comment after an age. There can be a lot of music lovers or there can be a rare music lovers who could understand the depth of melody and high standard of Rafi’s singing. And, today I’m glad to find you in this category whose music standard is of very high level. I’m glad your beautiful comment added color to my article.
The biggest surprise for me is that, I would say, now I’m fortunate and thrilled to read your wonderful comment.
Thanks a lot once again to you for your lovely comment to my small effort.
Best regards
H.A.K. Walijah
Walijah saab,
Great article on an immortal song. If the nightingale had delivered the song as planned by lp, she wouldn’t have had even 75% of the impact. At the high notes, her voice would have become shrill. How wonderfully Rafi’s voice becomes stronger and stronger as he reaches the high notes; at the same time, he pours his heart out.
This song brings back a lot of memories. Like many of the old-timers here, I was in school when the film was released. If I remember correctly, Jusla bottles used to sell for 15 paisa (or was it 25 paisa?) those days. Incidentally, this was the second Hindi film I saw (without my parents’ knowledge).
For the benefit of those who haven’t seen Rafi performing this song live, I am posting a short clip. You can see the young Laxmikant and Pyarelal conducting the orchestra during the Filmfare function where all of them were feted. Rafi is partially blocked by Laxmikant but even if you had a full view, you wouldn’t have been able to discern any movements on his face.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SPaSUpPr_8
Majrooh is one of the greatest shayars in the hindi film industry. Apart from his shayari, what I always admired about him was his simplicity and quiet dignity. He was to Nasir Hussain what Sahir was to the Chopra brothers.
Walijah saab :MET PYARELAL SAAB and daughter of majrooj saab at pune on 7th monday evening at the marriage reception of aawez darbar from the musical family of iqbal darbar – all pune based.
mr.raju naushad too was there with his wife sabah the daughter of majrooh saab.
when i spoke to pyarelal ji, the dosti article and images were zooming in the mind. Pyarelal ji was praising majrooh saab no ends – after he saw sabah . when i said dharti kahe pukar ke to sabha ji, she immediately said : and dosti.
it was a rich association between majrooh and l p although the numbers were few.
it was a rich evening made richer by some great anecdotes about mohd rafi from the son of naushad ali saaheb, raju naushad.
binu nair , the rafi foundation ..cell 9833 250 701
to post – 30 – Mr. Man Mouji
Thanks for your post and the information you provided for.
to post – 36 – Dr. Khaja Aliuddin Sahab
Many thanks for your invaluable information.
My regards to both of you.
Rafi Sahab at his best for this soaring song with too many pathos.
Chahoonga Main Tujhe: One of the most moving songs, and the picturization is equally effective too, showing the hero walking along the streets moving away from his friends. “Chahoonga Main tujhe Saanjh Savere, Phir Bhi Kabhi Ab Naam ko Tere, Aawaz Main Na Doonga”. How much ever he yearns for his friend, he is prepared to move away from his life, for the sake of his friend’s future. And yet he knows that his friend understand as he says “Dekh Mujhe Sab Hain pata, Sunta hai tu Man ki Sada”. Sure to make your eyes moist.
The story was good, but most importantly the songs left a lasting impression on me. One can forget the story after so many years… but one cant forget the songs or their profound meaning… they were just great.
this song emblazons the rajshri heritage from here to taqdeer and aarti and then tapasya and chitchor ,but also sawan ko aane do ,saransh , piya ka ghar ,uphar great heritage by great man to indian cinema
wonderful memories of people with values and morality the single most important aspect in fabrication of human character
Great work.
Can someone write – is there any biography of Rafi Sahab in Urdu language.
Kindly post it
While reading the article the marvellous songs of Dosti in Mohd Rafi’s soulful voice start automatically tuning in reader’s ears. The article is well written. Undoubtedly,Rafi’s range can not be matched by any singer, male or female till now. I recollect, in one of the stage shows, a popular playback singer whose voice resembles a bit with Rafi’s, started singing this song. The starting ‘Mukhda-Chahunga Mai Tujhe Sham -Savere’ was sung reasonably well but while coming to ‘Antara–Dekh Mujhe sab hai pata..MITWA… !!’ the singers’ voice could not cope-up and he had to leave the song in-between. Rafi sang this song with utmost ease-without any tension–This is Rafi –a ‘Baiju-Bawra’ of all times.. !
This is my third time comment
your passsion for the subject comes through so strongly with the vast and painstaking research that you have done. your own journey of discovery of the magic of film music made interesting reading, and triggered nostalgic thoughts since i too grew that way. you have done a great service by listing so many anecdotes of this song.
it was a marvellous well researched post. so much has been written about this song that i dont want to add anything that hasn’t been mentioned about. apart from being a genius singer he was also a genuinely large hearted human being (bade dilwala). he must have helped thousands along his life. i just pray to the almighty to send many more like him so that our world once again becomes worth living.
thanks for the wonderful post and the wonderful song.
god bless.
– Narendra
to post 29 – Utthara ji
thanks a lot to you for your kind words. i’m very glad to know that you liked this writeup on rafi sahab. i thank you once again for putting such beautiful comment.
to post 32 – J.K. Bhagchandani ji
thanks a ton to you for your brilliant comments. it’s so nice of you to have such kind words and i have my great pleasure to know you also enjoyed my writeup.
rafi sahab voice was really very lovely which i always think it as an ultimate voice pertaining to the melody and especially of high scale songs which was only rafi sahab who could take up to the taar saptak scale, at the end of the note of harmonium key.
Best regards
H.A.K. Walijah
To post – 36 / Mr. Prasad
It is true that the lyrics of this song is very simple and light but if you want see its weight it is more than an elephant.
I had always considered Majrooh saab as one of the greatest lyricists of Hindi cinema. And in certain respect I regard him as the best. I started reading more about Majrooh the poet and came to realize that he was truly great . And he was not just a good/great poet. He was a progressive poet who truly believed in his convictions …
Main akela hi chala tha jaanibe-e-manzil magar
Log saath aatey gaye aur kaarwan banta gaya
(I was alone when I started; on the way it became a caravan)
It is said about the above-mentioned couplet that if this was all Majrooh Sultanpuri ever wrote he would still be regarded as great a poet as he is.
This wonderful song consists only 59 words when I counted the lyric words in roman Hindi and its impact was such gigantic in nature, definitely it was the singer’s miraculous feat. Nobody could render such melodious and classic song other than Rafi Sahab. It is my personal opinion.
Dear Zaheen Danish, Salam,
Mr. Saleem-ul-Haq’s book is in English.
Title: Biography with complete songs (1944 to 1990)
Mohd. Rafi
The Great Immortal Singer
With the book, two CD’s of rare songs, one DVD of live shows and rare songs of Rafi Sahab are included.
Contact address’s are: Saleem is a resident of Hyderabad, India.
http://www.Mohdrafi.biography.com
mohdsaleemulhaq@hotmail.com
Phone#098490-22155
#91-40-23514979
In USA or Canada, please contact me.
holyfamilydr@aol.com
Long live Rafi Sahab,
Dr. Khaja Aliuddin
i fully agree with the views expressed by rameshkurpadji. l.k.advani proposed the name of a.b.bajpai instead of rafi saheb for bharat ratna and played politics.
binuji,
if l.k.advani can say such nice things about rafi sahab, why doesnt it strike his wisdom to see through that the legendary rafi sahab should be conferred the highest civilian award. these people just talk and talk and talk. thats all that they know.
he must be wanting us to forward his name instead.
sorry i had to say such harsh words – as politicians as we know them cannot evoke good feelings from the general public.
ramesh.
Very early ‘did’ mohd rafi saaheb recognise the diamond trait’s in composers laxmikant and pyarelal.
when ‘chaahunga mai tujhe’ was to be shelved, mohd rafi confidently told the composers : not to ever drop this gem of a song. i garunteeeee you all – that this song will be a big hit. mohd rafi had said.
after 53’s baiju bawra, mohd rafi was the king of playback – who could touch anything and turn it to – pure gold.
the other day, l.k.advani was heard saying that : ‘man tadpat hari darshan ko aaj’ was immortalised and he beacame a mohd rafi fan from there on.
the best part of the whole story is that laxmikant and pyarelal had their musical minds and foundations solidly ingrained in them. in the seventies laxmikant and pyarelal always kept special songs for mohd rafi … to the effect that a prominent singer of the times had also commented : aap ache ache gaane rofi shaab ko dete hai.
nafrat ki duniya ko chod kar…… was another gem of the times which stood out. imagine the song being sung by any other singer than mohd rafi.
as i said, l and p knew their musical grains and times, splendidly.
H.A.K. Walijah saab,
What a great article on a song that is matchless and timeless gem of Rafi saab!
Not only the article, the comments of distinguished Rafians too are brilliant, especially post 15 of Man Mouji. Great consolidated work by all: the writer and participant readers.
Just one point:
Somewhere I had read that this song was conceived keeping Asha Bhonsle (not Lata Mangeshkar) in mind. But your account (of Lata Mangeshkar) appears to be more convincing as L.P. had been big Rafi and Lata loyalists.
-J.K. Bhagchandani
Congratulations to everyone for highlighting this milestone album. The music of ‘Dosti’ is pure and solid gold….Rafi Sahab is truly matchless in all his numbers and all the songs are sung with perfect voice control and such great emotion that one feels like falling at his feet for creating this magic
to post 27 – Mr. Zaheen Danish
We can find in market there are books on Mohd. Rafi. Many friends of mine have drawn my attention toward some books like – Geet Kosh of Har Mandir Singh alias Hamraaz,
and two books specifically on Rafi –
one by Ajit Pradhan and Preetam Menghani and the other by Iqbal Ganam and Asif Bakshi.
But according to my knowledge, these books are only compilation of songs by Rafi and other singers.
If you extensively search for the biography, you can hardly find two books
(1) Meri Awaz Suno by: Vinod Viplav – it is in Hindi language
(2) Mohd.Rafi biography by Saleem ul Haq
In urdu and English, I did not come across so far any, if somebody knows kindly post it.
It is a matter of great concern for all Rafians that today there is no detail book on Rafi Saab. If someone, I mean some of the well known Rafians to take the charge of writing a complete biography of Rafi Sahab for the sake of Rafi Sahab lovers especially for younger generation which I think is the greatest legacy that will pass on.
In my knowledge there is no book or biography on life and works of Mohammad Rafi. Someone from Stalwart Rafi fan come forward to take this challenging task ( I am sure Rafians are more than Ph.D holders comparing in knowledge) of preparing such type of book on Rafi Saab which include – different articles, detail life skecth of Rafi, immemorabal, events about rafi, information about his family, reviews of songs and some photograps etc..
It is only my suggestion.
Walijah saab,
you have chosen everyone’s fave song. Not just that. While giving your impressions of this gem, you have also included some anecdoters and some interesting snippets and some info. The article makes very interesting reading.
Bahut khoob.
regards
Utthara
Doston :
I am more than happy to see the response on my little effort . Many thanks for your kind words….glad it brought back fresh memories of this great song!!
Almas sahab, Man Mouji Sahab and Kabeer Aman Sahab:
Thanks for such a lavish compliment. I will continue to write, as long as you continue to read!!
Thanks so much for the kind words, and for the additional anecdote!! You have enriched the enjoyment of this song even further – thank you from the bottom of my heart!!
Dr. Khaja Aliuddin Sahab, Y. Sharif Sahab, Narendera ji, Zaheen Danish ji
That was lavish praise indeed!! Thank you from the bottom of my heart. …much appreciated.
Binu Nair ji, Prasad ji, Ravi ji, Ramesh narian kurpad ji, Vithal ji
thank you so much for your kind words of encouragement – this is a small effort on my part. Thank you again.
Once again, thank you for all.
My heartfelt thanks for your warm compliments!! And thanks for sharing your thoughts….this is getting better and better!!
I convey my warm and heartfelt regards to all rafi fans; and special thanks to regular commentators for the most wonderful comments.
Best regards
H.A.K. Walijah
ref. post 24
Dr.Khaja Aliuddin Sahib,
the Biography of Rafi Saab, is it in English or Urdu. but somwhere I read the book contain only listing of songs not the complete biography. Can you shed some light on the book. if you know some good biography in English, please give the details.
Kind regards
Zaheen Danish
Just another anecdote, about the legend, which i found, for Rafi Sahab fans:
(Gulshan Bawra – Lyricist)
I remember reading an article before where Mr. Bawra talked about this song; I managed to find it online:
“Bada hi bhola insaan that Rafi, aur badaa hi mehnati gaayak! He has sung so many songs of mine, but to me ‘Deewane hai deewanon ko na ghar chahiye…’ (Zanjeer) will always remain extra special. I remember that Rafisaab ke roze the. Because of the fasting and the restrictions, he was a shade irritable. One ‘take’ of the song had been okayed by the music directors, but co-singer Lataji wanted a retake for some reason. Uncharacteristically, he refused, and said, “Main jaa raha hoon.” I followed him out of the studio and told him, “Paaji, do you know who is going to enact this song on screen? It’s me.” He turned round and asked why I had not told him so before. He came back and gave not one but two takes, and sang in such a way that it would suit my persona!”
Regards.
A great write up summing up the emotion portrayed by the legend through his voice,the hero of the movie was indeed Rafi sahab.with out taking credit of great music director duo LP,Outstanding music.
Manmauji ji yours was icing on the cake,great work.
Pls keep posting and keep it up.
Thanks once again for taking us down the memory lane.
Rafi lovers, Salaam,
As per Mr. Saleem-ul-Haq’s book on Biography with complete songs of Rafi Sahab, the statistics of Laxmikant Pyarelal and Rafi Sahab is as follows:
Films: 173
Solo songs: 186
Duet songs: 155
Chorus songs: 28
Total songs: 369
Rafi Sahab sang maximum number of songs with great composers,
Laxmikant Pyarelal.
Man Mauji Sahab, I want to know the remaining 107 solo songs of Rafi Sahab. Believe me they are the hidden gems.
With regards,
Dr. Khaja Aliuddin
A nice write-up! You make me nearly want to watch it!
Indeed Rafi Sahab contribution to the movie helped make it the classic status it enjoys today. The songs were such big hits that even in the 80s and 90s, radio stations used to play them all the time.
The songs, as everyone says, are pure gold.
Most people believe how Rafi Sahab was the actual creator of the Dosti Mania in 1964 and the influence it had on masses, and how it went on to win filmfare awards, especially for songs and music against so many outstanding songs of that year, notably yeh mera prem patra padh kar from Sangam.
to post -10 Mr. Man Mouji
Reply to your query – the first film of Rajshri productions was, I think, Aarti (1962) starring Pradeep Kumar and Meena Kumari and the music was composed by Roshan sahab.
Walijah ji,
One of the nice and interesting articles of yours – really interesting
Only problem was the video gets clash with the background song in the site – hope solution is found to this, other wise, the song needs to be heard in a different video.
After reading this article, I went to the music shop and purchased the audio cassette to enjoy all five songs of rafi saab, I truly enjoyed and mesmerized. The writer of this article had very correctly narrated about the song and its nuances.
Thanks
thanks for an excellent write up. rafi saab means 100% commitment towards playback singing. he is the best singer ever, male or female. he is the eternal voice of india. he is true bharat ratna.
Kudos Walijah sahab!!!
This is a brilliant writeup about Rafi Sab’s rendition!
I could see not only you wrote about emotions that this song emote but you also showed how moved you are by this song!!
Unless you have dwelt on this song for a long time, such a wonderful presentation would not have been this soul touching one!
Many thanks for reminding and making us grasp the essence of the song!
This is my second commendable comment as I could not have completed my first comment properly.
please keep writing and we are here to enjoy!
Best regards
Kabeer Aman
Thanks for this valueable update. Rafi saheb sungs unforgeatable songs in his imortal voice. No match with rafi saheb. Jab tak suraj chaand rahenge rafi saheb ki awaz or unke chaahne wale bhi rahenge.
Regards,
Birendra Singh
ref. post 15 – Mr. Man Mouji
Thank you very much sir for your invaluable information about Rafi Saab solos composed by LP. I was really looking for such information for my personal music library collection.
Again many thanks for the information.
Kind regards
Zaheen Danish
to post – 8 – Sharif Sahab,
yours is a very interesting post. As such Rafi Saab had rendered some of the beautiful solos composed by LP which are class of its own. I selected the list of songs for the sake of rafi fans. hope it will be informative for those who seek such solo songs of Rafi Sahab. Here is the list…..
1 Roshan Tumhi Se Duniya “Parasmani”(1963)
2. Chahunga Main Tuze “Dosti”(1964)
3. Meri Dosti Tera Pyar ”
4. Mera To Jo Bhi Kadam ”
5. Koi Jab Raah Na Paaye ”
6. Jaane Walo ”
7. Tere Pyar Ne Muze Gam Diya “Chhaila Babu”(1965)
8. Mere Dushman Tu Meri Dosti Ko Tarase “Aaye Din Bahark ke”(1966)
9. Akela Hoo Main Humsafar Dhundhata “Jaal” (1967)
10. Abhi Kamseen Ho Nadan Ho Jane Jana “Aaya Tufan” (1967)
11. Bahosho Hawas Main Deewana “Night In London” (1967)
12. O My Love… Nazar Na Lag Jaye ”
13. Aankh Milaye Na Muskuraye Na “Milan Ki Rat” (1967)
14. Mast Baharon Ka Main Aashiq “Farz”
15. Happy Birthday to You Sunita ”
16. Gore Hathon Par Na Julm Karo “Pyar Kiye Ja” (1967)
17. Patthar Ke Sanam Tuze Hamane “Patthar Ke Sanam” (1966)
18. Bade Miya Diwane Aise Na Bano “Shagird” (1968)
19. Duniya Pagal Hai ”
20. Jab Jab Bahar Aai “Tqudeer” (1968)
21. Aayee Baharon Ki Shaam “Wapas” (1969)
22. Painaniayan Khanake Ram ”
23. Door Hai Wo Aanchal ”
24. Gudiya Si Meri Ladli ”
25. O Firaki Wali Tu Kal Fir Aana “Raja Aur Rank” (1969)
26. Mehbooba Mehabooba Bando Muze Dulha “Sadhu Aur Shaitan” (1969)
27. Na Ja Kahin Ab Na Ja “Mere Humdam Mere Dost”(1969)
28. Chhalakaye Jaam Aaiye Aapke ”
29. Hui Sham Unka Khayal Aa Gaya ”
30. Rom Ke Wadiyon Mein Do Dil “Spy In Rome” (1969)
31. Kya Miliye Aise Logo Se “Izzat” (1969)
32. Main Raahi Anjan Geeto Ka “Anjana” (1969)
33. Meri Muhobbat Teri Jawani ”
34. Ye Shama To Jali “Aaya Sawan Zumake” (1969)
35. Mazee Chal O Mazee Chal ”
36. Bura Mat Suno Bura Mat Dekho ”
37. Ye Reshami Zulphe “Do Raste” (1969)
38. Aane Se Usake Aaye Bahar “Jeene Ki Raah” (1969)
39. Ek Banjara Gaye Jeevan Ke Geet ”
40. Jo Unaki Tamanna Hai “Intquam” (1969)
41. Mere Desh Main Pawan Chale Purwai “Jigari Dost” (1970)
42. Sajan Sajan Pukaru Galiyon Main “Sajan” (1970)
43. Koi Najarana Lekar Aaya Houn Main “Aan Milo Sajana” (1970)
44. Aaya Re Khilonewala “Bachpan” (1970)
45. Shadi Ke Liye Raja Mand Karli “Devi” (1970)
46. Ai Shukar Ke Tu Hai Ladaka “Himmat” (1970)
47. Khilona Jaan Kar Tum To Mera Dil “Khilona”(1970)
48. Khush Rahe Tu Sada Ye Dua Hai Meri ”
49. Chali Meri Dulhan Ki Dori “Darpan” (1970)
50. Dil Kahe Ruk Ja Re Ruk Ja “Man Ki Aankhe” (1970)
51. Aaha Aaaha Aa Ye Suhana Safar “Suhana Safar” (1970)
52. Aaap Aaye Bahar Aayee “Aap Aaye Bahar Aayee” (1971)
53. Puchhe Jo Koi Muzse Bahar Kaise ”
54. Nafarat Ki Duniya Ko Chhod Ke “Haathi Mere Saathi” (1972)
55. Ye Jo Chilman Hai Dushman Hai “Mehaboob Ki Mehandi” (1972)
56. Pasand Aa Gayee Hai Ek Kateel ”
57. Main Ek Raja Houn Tu Ek Raani Hai “Uphar” (1972)
58. Tu Mere Sapano Ki Raani Banegi. “Gora Aur Kala” (1972)
59. Na Tu Jameen Ke Liye Hai Na “Dastan” (1972)
60. Bade Bewafa Hai Ye Husn Wale “Roop Tera Mastana” (1972)
61. Haseen Dilruba Kareeb Aaa Jara ”
62. Aaj Mousam Bada Beiman Hai “Loafar” (1973)
63. Tere Naam Ka Deewana “Suraj Aur Chanda” (1973)
64. Main Wohi Wohi Baat Mere “Naya Din Nai Raat” (1974)
65. Muhobbat Hi Mubobbat Hai “Geeta Mera Nam” (1974)
66. Mere Geet Hai Anam Anam Shahido “Jurm Aur Saza” (1975)
67. Aapki Kasam Ek Deen Sanam Ye Ghussa “Phansi” (1976)
68. Main Jaat Yamala Pagala Deewana “Pratigya” (1976)
69. Parda Hai Parda “Amar Akbar Anthony” (1977)
70. Shirdi Wale Saibaba ”
71. Taayyabali Pyar Ka Dushman Hi Hi ”
72. O Meri Mehabooba Mehabooba Mehbooba “Dharmveer” (1977)
73. Main Galiyonka Raja ”
74. Meri Dushman Hai Ye Mere Ulzan Hai “Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki” (1978)
75. Ramji Ki Nikalee Sawaree “Sargam’ (1979)
76. Hum To Chale Pardes Hum ”
77. Dhak Dhak Se Dhadakana Na Jane “Aasha” (1979)
78. Chalori Doli Uthao Piya “Jani Dushman” (1979)
79. Darde Dil Darde Jigar “Karz” (1980)
Hello Mr. Walijah Nice Write Up !!!!
Wah! You have drawn a perfect sketch of our hearts. His evergreen voice and outstanding music of LP in film “Dosti” became a superb. “Rafi Ji ney kamal Kia” he sung on high pitch and no one can draw the melodious voice like Rafi Sahib. Of course there is no singer other than Rafi who can sing so beautifully, no other singer could do that. Excellent article by you, LP each and every song was gem and famous too.. LP took out new style from rafi so rafi lifted up LP’s music to the great heights.. together they ruled the era of 60s, and no doubt LP were best composers from 60s and onwards in every aspect.
Please keep it up this wonderful job.
Dear Mr. Walijah
Congrats…..
Well composed article with full of interesting anecdotes, it is simply superb, fabulous and mind blowing.
Rafi Sahab had sung with all the major music directors but I feel
Laxmikant-Pyarelal have exposed him maximum, even when Kishor Kumar
was on top, when most of the music directors forgotten Rafi but LP regularly used him.
Walijah Sir,
Nice write up and fantastic information about the great song. Chahoonga song bring tears while watching the movie, a very sentimental piece, a very rare gem of song, classic collection.
Thank you again for such informative article.
regards
Prasad
dear walijah,
khush raho,
koi shabad nahi hai mere pass, speech less, puraani yaadon mein kho gaya hoon.
what a lovely combo of majrooh , lp and rafi saheb, isi ko dekh kar ek combination br films ki movie humraaz mein bhi tha , sahir , ravi aur mahendra kapoor g ka.
dosti aur humraaz dono ka music itna shaandaar tha ki uska koi jawab nahin hai.
vinod mehru
09768245368
I believe It was Rajashree Films Second Film. All the prominent music directors of that time refused to give the music to this film as there was no star cast (two teenage unknown actors) and also they feel there was nothing in the film to compose the songs for Blind and Physically handicap Children. But LP took up the challenge and the film became History. It has won as many as 5 Filmfare Awards + President Award. The film was a great success and the credit goes to Laxmikant-Pyarelal’s immortal music. How to use “classical ragas”; make it little simpler to create Mass Appealing and Popular Songs is a best example of “Dosti” songs. Mohammad Rafi was at its best. Laxmikant-Pyarelal’s outstanding music. LP composed majority of the songs in “Pahadi Raag”.
–Chahunga Mian Tuze Sanz Sawere.. Rafi
–Mera To Jo Bhi Kadam Hai.. Rafi
–Koyi Jab Raah Na Paye.. Rafi
–Janewalo Jara Mudake Dekho Muze.. Rafi
–Rahi Manawa Dukhati Chinta.. Rafi
–Gudiya Hamase Ruthi Rahogi.. Lata
Leaving behind music director Roshan, Rajashri gave first preference to compose music for their very second film “Dosti” (1964), followed by Taqdeer (1967), “Jeevan Mrityu”(1969), “Uphaar” (1970), “Piya Ka Ghar” (1972). LP never disappointed Rajashree Films. The songs of the above films are still popular. Actually it is Dosti film that gave name and fame to both LP and Rajshri films.
Could anybody write what was the first black and white film of Rajshri films.
Good write up Mr.Walijah, A lot of information in it. Keep it up and thank you.
I remember listening the song Chahunga….when I was 7 or 8 years old and still loves it. Great rendering.
I read somewhere that Rafi was instrumental in composing most of the songs in Dosti himself to help LP. Don’t know how true that is.
Sal
LP paid Rs 500 to mohd rafi for this song but mohd rafi gave that money back to them and said I want you to work together all life and they did,also where there were misunderstanding between SJ that was mohd rafi advise them you better to work together, mohd rafi said to Lata ji that S from SJ is alone after J died to help him, when madan moan forced to not use mohd rafi,
Dear Walijah Sahab,
You very beautifully brought out each and every aspect of the great song. I have nothing to say about your excellent write-up but I want say something about this great duo LP and their association with Rafi Saab.
Rafi saab and LP were just like Fragrance and flower, LP were the staunch rafi loyalist throughout their life. Their greatness lies in their Simplicity, Commitment and the quality of unconquered Versatility gave Laxmikant-Pyarelal a Supreme Staying Power of 35 years in the Hindi Film Music. Laxmikant-Pyarelal’s tunes used to be very simple but at the same time it used to be extremely sweet, catchy and melodious.
LP gave their major credit to Rafi Saab for the songs of Dosti where Laxmikant-Pyarelal got their major breakthrough in Rajashree Films “Dosti” in 1964. (Songs:- Chahunga Main Tuze,.. Janewalo Zara,..Meri Dosti Tera Pyar,..Mera To Jo Bhi Kadam,..Rahi Manawa Dukhti Chinta,.. Gudiaya Hama Se Ruthi Rahogi..). All the songs became hit. Music of “Dosti” kept LP in top position in the Hindi Film Music. This position of Laxmi-Pyare remain unaffected and continued till 35 more years. “Dosti” film music gave LP their first ever Filmfare Award.
Rafi Saab voice was extensively used by this duo in all forms of film songs such as Classical, Folk, Qawwali, Western, Lori, Bhajan and Ghazal etc. They were also outstanding at exploiting several instruments, including their favorite Dholak, Tabala and also the Violin, Guitar, Bongo and Piano, Santoor, Sitar, Mendolian and many Indian as well as Western instruments. LP churned out song after song with Rafi Saab from Parasmani till karz . The songs simply outstanding and marvelous.
Entire list of the LP’s film graph goes higher and higher with Rafi saab the list is given but just to highlight the names of a few more films with hit music such as Raja Aur Rank, Taqdeer, Jeene Ki Raah, Do Raaste, Mere Humdam Mere Dost, Jeevan Mrityu, Piya Ka Ghar, Aaya Sawn Zumake, Uphar, Dharati Kahe Pukark Ke, Dushman, Hathi Mere Saathi, Humjoli, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Sharafat, Jigari Dost, Aan Milo Sajna, Raja Jani, Dost, Meheboob Ki Mehendi, Loafer, Pratigya, Khilona, Dharam-Veer, Chacha Bhatija, Prem Kahani, Amar Akbar Anthony, Aasha, Badaltey Rishtey, Suhaag, Desh Premee, Sargam, Karz, Kranti, Mian Tulasi Tere Angan Ki, and many more are enough to realize the potential of the LP duo to churn out hit music over a continuous stretch in time. The pair gave music to approximately 500 films in the 35 year span. Most of the composed songs carried the fragrance of beautiful melody.
Keep up the good work.
Regards
Y. Sharif
Great songs Never Do die….. Dosti songs are for all seasons.
thanks walijah saaheb for giving so many minute details of the songs of dosti.
I think the makers will try to ‘colour’ the movie in the future as the trend is.
it will be good for youngsters who care about good music.
dear Walijah Sahab,
I appreciate your selection of topics on Rafi Saab one after another and making us mesmerizing, I could have hardly any comments on your write-up. In one word I am speechless and wonderstruck.
There couldn’t be a better lyrics and better voice but this was an exception as the songs are worth listening. Md. Rafi Saab at his best … especially Chahoonga is the classic masterpiece evergreen song only because of Rafi Saab classic singing.
It feels so bad that with so much advanced technology now a days in Bollywood somehow the real art and classics are lost with increasing commercialization and glamor. Gone are the days of real classics. I listened this song hundred of times, a wonderful masterpiece composition by Laxmi pyare ji and Rafi Saab rendition is superb.
Thanks for sharing this wonderful article, May God give you more strength to share more articles with rafi fans in coming days.
Best of luck and regards
A. Almas
Dear Walijah Sahab,
thanks a lot for posting this beautiful write-up on one of my favourite movies, I watched this more than ten times in my school days during sixties. I once again went back in my early recollections. A heart touching tale of friendship, one of best movie ever, Best film, story, acting, songs and music.Mohd. Rafi, Majrooh Sultanpuri and Lakshmikant Pyarelal at their best. This movie has some memorable songs like – “Chahoonga Mein Tujhe…” , “Jaane Waalon Zara…” etc. There couldn’t be a better lyrics and better voice for the songs of this movie. After listening to this movie songs only one thought comes in my mind that today in Bollywood some how the real art and classics are lost and worst is that the loss is beyond repair.
I expect more gem write ups from you, with each and every article you rising to the popularity in rafi forum. Keep it up and keep going.
Best regards
Man Mouji
Janab Walijah Sahab, ASA,
Bahut khoob, gahzab ki tahreer, lajawab selection and straight from your heart.
Mubarak,
Dr. Khaja Aliuddin
Beautiful write up on one of my favourite song.
Well done ….. Congrats
Shabana
Walijah Sahab,
Ek aur nayaab moti toot kar gira rafi forum main ” Chahoonga main tujhe ”
Lajawab, bemisal and bahut umda write-up
regards
Kabeer Aman
walijah sahab,
a truly well encompassed article on a master piece – even though i am 62 years of age – i still cry – when i hear this song as i did on its release 45 years back.
keep it flowing sahab – you write through your heart like me and i like your writing a lot.
ramesh narain kurpad