A voice that once resonated in the hearts of millions, Ameen Sayani’s journey through the golden age of radio is quite like a poetic legacy.
RJ-ing may be deemed modern and cool, but decades ago, Sayani redefined the art of storytelling, transforming radio waves into a mesmerising canvas of music, humour and heartfelt connection.
Through Binaca Geet Mala, later Cibaca Geet Mala, he brought alive songs in the minds of his listeners, making every home a stage and every heart a participant.
Sayani’s style was a symphony of modesty and charm.
Unlike the exuberant style of today’s RJs, he spoke softly, weaving nuggets of trivia, artiste anecdotes and public sentiments into a magical fabric.
His humour was gentle yet infectious, his knowledge vast yet accessible.
Listeners adored him for this balance, often valuing his voice over the songs he introduced.
The anticipation surrounding Binaca Geet Mala was unequalled.
Each week, families would assemble around the radio, waiting with bated breath to hear which song had claimed the coveted number one spot.
Behind the scenes, Sayani and his team meticulously curated rankings, with decisions accepted unquestioningly, a nod to his credibility.
Songs retired after 25 runs were saluted with dignity and a bugle, a ritual that amplified the programme’s charm.
In an era when radios were scarce, Sayani’s voice unified neighbourhoods, families, and even nations.
Broadcasting via Radio Ceylon, Binaca Geet Mala held sway for an extraordinary 42 years, a record that remains unbeaten.
His catchphrase greeting Bhaiyon aur behnon became a cultural phenomenon, as did the thousands of letters he received monthly from devoted fans.
Artistes revered him.
For musicians, singers, and composers, landing on Sayani’s charts was akin to earning a badge of honour.
The industry hung on his words, their hearts racing at his every announcement.
Such was his influence that Binaca Geet Mala turned chart-topping songs into timeless classics.
Beyond his flagship show, Sayani helmed iconic programmes like S. Kumar’s Filmi Mukadma and the Bournvita Quiz Contest.
His staggering repertoire, over 54,000 radio programmes and 19,000 jingles, stands as a monumental feat in broadcasting history.
Fluent in multiple languages, he reached a diverse audience, his voice bridging cultural and linguistic divides with ease.
Born in Bombay on 21st December, 1931, Sayani’s journey began at Scindia School and St. Xavier’s College, but it was his golden voice that would etch his name into history.
Honoured with the Padma Shri in 2009, he also made cameo appearances in a few films like Bhoot Bangla and Teen Deviyaan.
On 21st February, 2024, at the age of 91, Ameen Sayani’s voice fell silent.
Yet, his echo lingers, a melodic reminder of an era when radio was king, and one man’s voice united a nation.
Note
- Collage visual courtesy the world wide web.
- This article had first appeared in The Reviewer Collective group on Facebook.
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