Perhaps the most recognized voice of the last century that brings joy into the lives of ordinary people belongs to Ameen Sayani. With a perfectly cool demeanor at the microphone and his trademark gentle and melodious tone, Ameen Sayani, responsible for what could be the most soothing announcement in broadcast history, hosted over 54,000 radio programs with over 19,000 jingles and spots.
Although I have not witnessed the peak era of Amin Sayani’s stardom, as a little kid, I witnessed the last few episodes of Geetmala, which were renamed “Cibaka Geetmala” in 1993, which are still fresh in my mind after so many years. I have also listened to the stories of the madness, awe, and admiration Sayani Saab’s voice created in his listeners from my older family members.
Early Life
Amin Sayani was born on December 21, 1932, in Bombay as the son of Kulsum Sayani, a freedom fighter, social reformer, and author, and Dr. Jaan Mohamad Sayani, himself a freedom fighter and a physician. His father was famous for treating poor patients for free, often paying for their medicines. Sayani’s grandfather, Rahimtulla M. Sayani, was a pioneering lawyer and served as the president of the Indian National Congress.
Interestingly, Ameen Saab redefined the Hindi radio experience himself, being educated in English from St. Xavier’s College and having to work on his Hindi.
Satarting of a Legendary Career
Amin Sayani’s radio career began in the early 1950s when his brother, Hamid Sayani, introduced him to All India Radio (AIR) in Bombay. Initially, Sayani participated in English programs, honing his skills and setting the stage for a remarkable career.
His big break came when he transitioned to Hindi broadcasting and joined Radio Ceylon, where he presented the iconic show “Binaca Geetmala.” Binaca Geetmala, the hugely popular show that became synonymous with Ameen Saab, showcased the top choices of listeners in Hindi film songs, attracting countless households to tune in every Wednesday evening.
Sayani’s warm and engaging style, coupled with his deep musical knowledge, made the show a cultural phenomenon. His signature greeting, “Behno aur Bhaiyo” (sisters and brothers), became synonymous with his name and endeared him to millions of listeners.
Ameen Sayani’s Geet Mala
Starting in 1952 as a precursor to the ultimate countdown for Hindi film songs based on popularity, Binaca Geetmala became the sensation of Radio Ceylon. By the late ’70s, it had an estimated weekly listenership of around 21 crores. The show received an overwhelming response, with letters pouring in by the gunny bagful—reaching a staggering 65,000 per week. It featured the most idolised radio station host any channel could hope for. Geetmala transitioned to Vividh Bharati on All India Radio (AIR) from 1989 to 1993.
In addition to “Binaca Geetmala,” Sayani hosted several other popular radio shows, including “S. Kumar Ka Filmy Muqaddama,” “Filmi Mulaqaat,” “Saridon Ke Saathi,” “Shalimar Superlac Jodi,” and “Sangeet Kay Sitaron Ki Mehfil,” among others.
He also hosted the English quiz show “Bournvita Quiz Contest,” which he took over in 1975 after the death of his elder brother, Hamid Sayani.
Awards and Honours
Throughout his illustrious career, Sayani received numerous awards and honours, including the Gold Medal from the Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA) (1991), the Person of the Year Award by the Limca Book of Records (1992), the Hall of Fame Award from the Indian Academy of Advertising Film Art (IAAFA) (1993), the Golden Abby by the Advertising Club, Bombay, for the Outstanding Radio Campaign of the Century—Binaca/Cibaca Geetmala (2000), the Kaan Hall of Fame Award from Radio Mirchi (2003), the Living Legend Award from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) (2006), and the Hindi Ratna Puraskar by Hindi Bhavan of New Delhi (2007).
Amin Sayani was married to Rama, and the couple had a son, Rajil Sayani. “Ameen Sayani” Sahab passed away on February 20, 2024, in Mumbai, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
Tasweermahal is paying a humble tribute to Amin Sayani, the biggest icon of radio announcements and presentations in India. His distinctive voice and engaging style with deep knowledge made him one of the most popular and beloved people across the Indian subcontinent.
Ameen Sayani on IMDB
