A Musical Legend Remembered in Coin
₹100 Commemorative Coin Honours Mohammed Rafi’s Legacy: To mark the 100th birth anniversary of Mohammed Rafi, one of India’s most revered playback singers, the Government of India has announced the release of a special ₹100 commemorative coin. The announcement has struck a nostalgic chord with millions of music lovers across the country, celebrating the life and voice that defined an era of Indian cinema.
Prime Minister’s Tribute to a Timeless Voice
Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally paid homage to the iconic singer, referring to Rafi as a “musical genius” whose influence stretches across generations. His message emphasized how Rafi’s songs captured the very soul of the nation—whether it was romance, devotion, patriotism, or heartbreak.
Design and Significance of the Coin
Although the exact design details of the ₹100 coin are yet to be revealed, such commemorative coins often include national emblems and a portrait of the individual being honoured. The inclusion of Mohammed Rafi’s image is not just symbolic; it’s a reminder of his unmatched contribution to Indian culture and his role in shaping the golden era of Bollywood music.
Centenary Celebrations: A Towering Tribute
The celebrations go beyond the coin. In Rafi’s birthplace—Kotla Sultan Singh near Amritsar, Punjab—a 100-feet tall ‘Rafi Minar’ is being constructed. This unique memorial will feature engravings of 100 of his most iconic songs, giving fans and future generations a place to relive his magical melodies. It’s not just a monument, but a living museum of India’s musical heritage.
Mohammed Rafi’s Enduring Influence
Rafi’s voice was the heart of Bollywood from the 1940s through the 1980s. He sang in multiple Indian languages, and his versatility spanned genres—from qawwalis and bhajans to romantic ballads and patriotic anthems. His playback voice brought to life actors like Dev Anand, Shammi Kapoor, Rajendra Kumar, and Amitabh Bachchan, leaving behind a repertoire of over 7,000 recorded songs.
Even today, his songs continue to feature in reality shows, playlists, and cinema, proving that his legacy is truly immortal.
A Cultural Symbol Cast in Metal
This commemorative ₹100 coin is more than just a numismatic token—it’s a national salute to a man who gave voice to India’s emotions for over four decades. It also reflects how India continues to value and institutionalize its cultural icons through official government honours and permanent memorials.
STATIC GK SNAPSHOT
| Category | Detail |
| Coin Announced By | Government of India |
| Occasion | 100th Birth Anniversary of Mohammed Rafi |
| Coin Value | ₹100 |
| Honoree | Mohammed Rafi, legendary playback singer |
| Additional Tribute | 100-feet Rafi Minar in Amritsar, Punjab |
| PM’s Statement | “Musical genius with timeless cultural impact” |
| Born | December 24, 1924 (Kotla Sultan Singh, Punjab) |
| Notable Songs | “Chaudhvin Ka Chand”, “Aaj Mausam Bada Beimaan Hai”, “Baharon Phool Barsao” |
| Number of Songs | Over 7,000 |
