 Rushdi got well recognition for singing "Mari lela ne aisi" in "Anokhi" (1956), "Chalak Rahi Hain Mastiyan" and "Chal Na Sakey Gi 420" in "Raaz" (1959).In 1961, he sang the popular song "Chand Sa Mukhra Gora Badan" in the film "Saperan", for which he received his first Nigar Award as Best Male Playback Singer.He further strengthened his status as one of the top male playback singers in "Mehtaab" (1962), in which he sang "Gol Gappay Wala Aaya" for actor Alauddin; they would again be teamed in "Susral".