Visit to Rafi's Birthplace - Sept 2008 - Kotla Sultan Singh - Punjab

Description : I have been inspired for much of my life by the legend that is Mohammed Rafi, and the unique combination of attributes (genius, humility and reaching out across race, religion & creed) that make him an ideal role model and an inspiration.

I was therefore drawn to seek out his birthplace (village by the name of Kotla Sultan Singh, near Amritsar in Punjab, India) to experience firsthand the environment that produced such a genius. My visit took place in September 2008, and I was accompanied by my son who recorded this interview with Sardar Kundan Singh, who is one of Rafi Sahibs few remaining (possibly last) childhood friends.

I have deliberately waited about 3months before posting this video to allow my impressions and feelings about the visit to mature. What has evolved is a mixture of inspiration and sadness.

Im saddened by the observation that Rafi Sahib never returned to his birthplace after 1945 (only to Amritsar where he greeted his village friends), which is surprising since people of that era were generally very affectionate about their villages. It is perhaps indicative of the toxic environment that led to partition, and Rafis family leaving the village, which must have been quite a horrifying experience.

The second disappointment is the lack of a more fitting commemoration, which would promote the very values we hold dear. What an icon we have to represent genius without arrogance, and an all embracing attitude that brings together people from all communities. I would argue that Rafi sahib, even today, has a wider following than, say Elvis Presley in the world.

On a more positive note, I am inspired by the fact that such an ordinary place can produce such a genius. In my mind he had a unique and divine gift to translate the technicalities of music into a language that shook even the musically illiterate (Im thinking of examples like madhuban mein raadhika naache re from Kohinoor). Perhaps there is hope for all of our children living in very ordinary places all around the world. It is incumbant upon us to make sure we promote talent when we see it and provide opportunity for all our children to excel in their own areas of genius.

My apologies for the quality of the video, and the somewhat disjointed nature of the interview which was due to a lack of preparation and not knowing what I would find. I hope this will not detract from my small contribution to the record of this legend, who will continue to be a shining light and an inspiration to billions.