Popular Radio Presenter Ameen Sayani Dies At 91

One of the most popular radio presenter of India, Ameen Sayani passed away at the age of 91 after suffering from  a heart attack. The news of death was confirmed by the son of the radio host, Rajil Sayani .  He was the host of the popular show Binaca Geetmala which is remembered by the generation who primarily had radio for their entertainment. The family has scheduled Sayani’s last rites for this Thursday while they wait for certain relatives to arrive in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Ameen’s son confirms the news

According to Rajil Sayani, his father passed away at HN Reliance Hospital in Mumbai on Tuesday night following a heart attack. He told the portal, “The doctors at the hospital attended him but couldn’t save him and he was declared dead.”

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Career of the popular radio presenter

Ameen Sayani was born in Mumbai on December 21, 1932. His radio introduction, “Namaskar bhaiyon aur behno, main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon” (Hello sister and brothers, this is your buddy Ameen Sayani), still invokes strong feelings of nostalgia.
Ameen was well-known for his show Binaca Geetmala, which aired for more than 42 years starting in 1952 and primarily on Radio Ceylon and thereafter Vividh Bharati (AIR).

Since 1951, Ameen Sayani has composed, produced, or spoken for more than 54,000 radio shows and 19,000 commercials and jingles. Over the years, Sayani has also appeared in a number of films, including Boxer, Teen Devian, Bhoot Bungla, and Qatl. He made appearances in all of these films, sometimes announcing events.

Tributes have been pouring in on social media for Ameen Sayani, who helped popularise All India Radio in India. “Binaca Geetmala would always remain eternal. Thank you for the music and memories. RIP, Ameen Sayani Saab,” tweeted a fan. Another wrote, “Have very fond memories of binaca Geetmala during my childhood…Ameen Sayani was a legend at that time… rest in peace sir.”

PM Modi and President Murmu shared condolences

Prime Minister Modi in a post on X gave condolences to the family of Ameen Sayani and shared post on social media platform X from his account. The post read, “Shri Ameen Sayani Ji’s golden voice on the airwaves had a charm and warmth that endeared him to people across generations. Through his work, he played an important role in revolutionising Indian broadcasting and nurtured a very special bond with his listeners. Saddened by his passing away. Condolences to his family, admirers and all radio lovers. May his soul rest in peace.”

In addition to PM Modi, the President of India, Draupadi Murmu also shared condolences through her X handle. The google translation of her post, which is originally in hindi says, “The demise of Shri Amin Sayani ji marks the end of an era for radio listeners in India and many countries. He had made a special place in the hearts of people with his natural style of presenting radio programs, impressive voice and unique flow. He made a special contribution to the popularity of accessible music and cinema. I express my condolences to the countless radio listeners who loved him and to the family members of Shri Amin Sayani ji.”