Ameen Sayani, the revered radio icon who captivated millions with his legendary broadcasts, passed away at the age of 91 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He is survived by his son Rajil and grandchildren. Sayani experienced a heart attack on February 20 and was rushed to Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, where he breathed his last.
Political and entertainment luminaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union I&B Minister Anurag Thakur, expressed condolences to Sayani’s family. Sayani’s iconic radio greeting, “Namaskar Behno aur Bhaiyon! Main aapka dost Ameen Sayani bol raha hoon…!” resonated with generations and defined an era.
Beginning with the popular countdown show “Binaca Geetmala” on Radio Ceylon and later on All India Radio (AIR), Sayani became a household name. He hosted over 54,000 radio programs and more than 19,000 spots or jingles. Born in Mumbai in 1932, Sayani’s contributions to Indian radio and cinema are unparalleled.
His mesmerizing voice and sense of humor endeared him to audiences, making him synonymous with the golden age of radio. Sayani’s legacy includes popular shows like “S Kumar ka Filmi Muqaddama” and “Bournvita Quiz Contest.” He also hosted numerous live events globally, showcasing his widespread popularity.
Recipient of prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri and the Hindi Ratna Puraskar, Sayani’s impact on radio broadcasting and entertainment industry is immeasurable. His dedication, talent, and contribution to promoting Hindi film music and cultural exchange leave an indelible mark on Indian radio history.
