Ameen Sayani
21 December 1932 – 20 February 2024
Who can forget Ameen Sayani’s baritone making this announcment every Wednesday in the 60’s, 70’s, and the early 80’s. “Namaste, Beheno aur Bhaiyon,” (Good evening sisters and brothers, this is Ameen Sayani, your host, on ‘Vividh Bharati, Akashvani’s most loved station, playing your favorite weekly program ‘Binaca Geet Mala‘*. The following song was requested by someone living in ‘Jhumri Teliya!’ Sayani would read out the name of every person who had requested a particular song and the city they lived in!
Ameen Sayani (21 December 1932 – 20 February 2024) was more than just a voice on Radio Ceylon; he was its heart and soul – a cultural icon whose influence extended far beyond the airwaves. He filled people’s lives with music. As the host of programs like Binaca Geetmala, he became synonymous with the golden era of Indian film music, captivating audiences with his melodious voice, impeccable timing, and deep knowledge of music.
Sayani’s presence on Radio Ceylon elevated the station to unprecedented heights of popularity, drawing listeners from across the Indian subcontinent and beyond. His charming personality and charismatic delivery made him a household name, and his signature greeting and dedications won the hearts of people. Every listener felt he was talking to them. Such was Sayani’s ability, he touched people’s hearts.
But Sayani’s significance went beyond his on-air persona. As a pioneer in the world of broadcasting, he revolutionized the way radio programs were produced and presented. His innovative technique, such as the countdown format of Binaca Geetmala, set new standards for radio programming and paved the way for future generations of broadcasters.
Through his work on Radio Ceylon, Ameen Sayani not only entertained audiences but also served as a cultural ambassador. His contributions to the station’s success were immeasurable. I hope his legacy will continue to inspire broadcasters and music lovers to this day.
Ameen Sayani died on Tuesday in Mumbai following a heart attack. He was 91.
*Binaca Geet Mala – a listener requested song program sponsored by the makers of Binaca toothpaste, then owned by Reckitt Benckiser & later sold to the Indian Company Dabur in 1996
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