Mumbai, Feb. 21: Legendary radio presenter Ameen Sayani passed away at the age of 91 on Tuesday after suffering a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by all connoisseurs of radio who value sobriety and civility in language and style. His unique style and accessible language endeared him to the masses.
Born on December 21, 1932, Ameen Sayani began his journey in the world of broadcasting in 1951, starting with Radio Ceylon. His warm, friendly, and charming voice became an instant favorite for generations of listeners. Sayani’s career transitioned from an English-language broadcaster to someone who spoke commonly understood Hindustani (which was neither chaste Urdu nor Hindi).
Sayani became a household name with his immensely popular radio program ‘Binaca Geetmala,’ which played a pivotal role in revolutionizing radio listening in India. It started as a 30-minute program on Radio Ceylon, transforming into a cultural phenomenon in the 1950s. The show went through various name changes but retained its essence, running from 1952 to 1994 and later being revived in the early 2000s. His memorable interactions with the stars of yore became legendary, reflecting his ability to connect with listeners and celebrities.
Sayani once expressed his desire for each listener to feel a personal connection, a sentiment that undoubtedly struck a chord and revolutionized radio presentation. His career spanned over six decades. His contributions earned him a place in the Limca Book of Records for hosting and compering over 54,000 radio programs and making approximately 19,000 jingles as a voiceover artist.
Sayani, the iconic voice of Indian radio, touched the hearts of millions with his warmth, charm, and unparalleled contribution to the world of broadcasting. His name will forever be synonymous with the golden era of radio in India.
