In 1947 when Rafi was asked to sing Rajinder Krishan's song depicting the life of Mahatma Gandhi. " Suno Suno ae duniya walo bapu ki amar kahani" That same year, he was also invited by Jawaharlal Nehru to sing at his house and next year on the anniversary of the Independence Day he received a silver medal from Nehru.

During his career he won many honors and awards.

In 1965 the Indian Government awarded him the title of Padma Shree.

He won six Filmfare Awards as Best Male Singer.

YEAR	SONG	FILM
1960	Chaudhavin ka chand ho ya aftab ho	CHAUDHAVIN KA CHAND
1961	Teri pyari pyari surat ko kisi ki nazar na lage	SASURAL
1964	Chahunga main tujhe sanjh sawere	DOSTI
1966	Baharo phool barsao mera Mehboob aaya hai	SURAJ
1968	Dil ke jharoke mein tujhko bitha kar	BRAHMACHARI
1977	Keya hua tera waada	HUM KISI SE KUM NAHIN