Legendary Radio Presenter Ameen Sayani, Voice of "Binaca Geet Mala," Passes Away at 91

Ameen Sayani, the iconic radio presenter renowned for hosting the beloved show "Binaca Geet Mala," breathed his last on Tuesday at the age of 91. Known for his distinctive voice and contributions to the world of Indian radio, Sayani's passing marks the end of an era in broadcasting.

The Voice of Binaca Geet Mala

Born in 1932, Ameen Sayani hailed from a literary family, with a deep connection to language and literature. His journey into radio commenced in 1951 with Radio Ceylon, setting the stage for an illustrious career. Sayani's distinctive opening, "Namaskar bhaiyon aur behno, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon," became synonymous with his engaging and accessible style.

Binaca Geet Mala Legacy

Sayani's crowning achievement was the immensely popular show "Binaca Geet Mala," which debuted as a 30-minute program on Radio Ceylon in the 1950s. The show evolved over the years with name changes but retained its essence, running from 1952 to 1994. Even in the early 2000s, it made a comeback, finding a new audience on All India Radio's Vividh Bharti.

Record-Breaking Contributions

Prolific Voiceover Artiste

Ameen Sayani earned accolades as a record-breaking voiceover artist, hosting and compering over 54,000 radio programs. His distinctive voice became a hallmark of the Indian radio landscape, resonating with audiences across the country.

Limca Book of Records Entry

Sayani's impact extends to the Limca Book of Records, where he holds a record for contributing to around 19,000 jingles as a voiceover artist. His versatility and contribution to the audio landscape are etched in the annals of Indian broadcasting.

Memorable Interactions and Enduring Influence

Ameen Sayani's interactions with stars from the Golden Era left an indelible mark. Notable moments include interviews with Lata Mangeshkar, delving into sensitive topics with Kishore Kumar, and a unique self-interview by Kishore Kumar on his show. These interviews showcased his ability to connect with the icons of the entertainment industry.

Revolutionizing Radio Presentation

In an interview, Sayani reflected on his approach, stating, "I wanted each listener to feel that I was talking to them." This approach revolutionized radio presentation, making it a phenomenon and creating a lasting impact on the medium.

Ameen Sayani: A Life Devoted to Radio and the Magic of Music

Ameen Sayani, the iconic voice of Indian radio and the beloved host of "Binaca Geetmala," passed away on February 20, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that transcends generations. His career, spanning over seven decades, was marked by warmth, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to connecting with listeners through the power of music and storytelling.

Early Life and Stepping into Broadcasting:

Born in 1932, Sayani was surrounded by the magic of language and literature from a young age. His mother, Kulsum Sayani, edited a journal founded by Mahatma Gandhi, and his brother, Hamid Sayani, was a prominent English broadcaster. This environment fueled his own passion for communication, leading him to Radio Ceylon in 1951, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey.

The Voice of a Nation: "Binaca Geetmala" and Beyond:

Sayani's signature greeting, "Namaskar bhaiyon aur behno, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon," became synonymous with radio itself. His warm, conversational style and accessible language resonated deeply with listeners, especially during a time when All India Radio had banned Bollywood music. Launched in 1952, "Binaca Geetmala" became a national phenomenon under his command. The show, though undergoing name changes throughout its four-decade run, remained a vital platform for showcasing popular Hindi music. Sayani's engaging introductions, insightful interviews with legendary artists like Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar, and Raj Kapoor, and his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level further cemented the show's cultural significance.

A Record-Breaking Voice and More:

Beyond "Binaca Geetmala," Sayani's voice graced over 54,000 radio programs and 19,000 jingles, setting remarkable records. He experimented with various broadcasting formats, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. His contributions extended beyond entertainment, fostering a love for language and music in generations of listeners and playing a crucial role in promoting simple Hindustani across the country.

Enduring Legacy and Inspiration:

Ameen Sayani's legacy goes far beyond his on-air presence. He was a pioneer in Indian radio, shaping its landscape with his warmth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to connecting with listeners. His ability to bridge generations through the power of music and storytelling continues to inspire broadcasters and music lovers alike. His passing marks the end of an era, but his voice and the memories he created will resonate forever in the hearts of millions.