Music, memories, and heartfelt emotions filled the Mukti Foundation Auditorium in Mumbai as the second edition of "Ek Shaam Krishna Ke Naam" celebrated the birth anniversary of late artist Saleem alias Krishna Kumar while also paying tribute to legendary playback singer Mohammed Rafi. The musical evening brought together some of the biggest names from the music and entertainment industry, including Sudesh Bhosale, Sonu Nigam, Shabbir Kumar, Shahid Mallya, Dev Negi, Daboo Malik, lyricist Kumaar, comedian Sunil Pal, and several other distinguished guests. Among the most emotional moments of the evening came from Nasirr Khan, actor-director and son of legendary comedian Johnny Walker, whose heartfelt memories of Rafi Sahab and his father's lifelong friendship moved everyone present.
Speaking about the tribute, Nasirr Khan praised the initiative and expressed why it was impossible for him to miss the event. He said, "Both are great and, so no, it's great that perhaps brother is doing something like this, and it's a very good thing that he is doing it. I was there last year and I came this year too, and Rafi Sahab's name is also associated with me. So, I have had a family relationship with Rafi Sahab since childhood, and with my father since 1950. So, it's my duty to come." His words reflected not only his admiration for the event but also the deep personal bond his family shared with the legendary singer.
Recalling the unforgettable connection between Johnny Walker and Mohammed Rafi, Nasirr shared one of the evening's most touching anecdotes. He revealed, "Daddy always said that he got his name and fame because of two people: one is Guru Dutt and the other is Rafi. Because of the songs Rafi sang for Daddy, I mean, close to 190 songs. I think Rafi sang most of his songs for Johnny Walker, and initially, people thought it was Johnny Walker who sang those songs. Later, people found out that it was Mohammad Rafi. So, as I said, ours was not just a professional relationship, but also a family relationship. And he has always been grateful to Rafi for giving me the songs he has sung for my father."
Nasirr's emotional recollection highlighted one of Bollywood's most cherished creative partnerships. Mohammed Rafi's iconic playback vocals became synonymous with Johnny Walker's unforgettable comic performances, creating timeless classics that continue to entertain audiences across generations. His revelation that many people initially believed Johnny Walker himself had sung those songs underscored just how perfectly Rafi's voice complemented the legendary actor's screen presence.
The evening wasn't just a celebration of music—it became a heartfelt reminder of the enduring friendships and artistic collaborations that shaped Hindi cinema's golden era. As soulful renditions of Mohammed Rafi's classics echoed through the auditorium, "Ek Shaam Krishna Ke Naam" transformed into a celebration of legacy, gratitude, and nostalgia, ensuring that the memories of Krishna Kumar, Mohammed Rafi, and legends like Johnny Walker continue to inspire generations of music lovers.