Ameen Sayani, the beloved voice of Bollywood songs, has sadly passed away at the age of 91. For generations of Indians, Sayani was synonymous with Bollywood and radio. His weekly countdown show, Binaca Geetmala, captivated audiences for an astounding 42 years, making him a true legend in the industry. However, behind Sayani’s success lies a story of defiance and perseverance.
Sayani’s radio career began during a time when the Indian government banned film songs from national airwaves. They believed that these songs were a threat to Indian classical music and deemed their lyrics irrational and vulgar. But Sayani, along with Radio Ceylon, a station based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, found a way around the ban. By partnering with a toothpaste brand sponsor and recording his shows outside the Indian government’s jurisdiction, Sayani was able to share the joy of Bollywood music with millions of listeners across India.
Sayani’s show became an instant hit, thanks to his fresh and joyous style of broadcasting. He introduced each song with the names of the writer, composer, and singer, and shared anecdotes about their struggles and dedication. Sayani’s love for Bollywood music was evident in every episode, and his genuine enthusiasm resonated with his audience. He became a cultural ambassador and publicist of Hindi Bollywood music, elevating it to a popular art form.
Not only did Sayani entertain his listeners, but he also saved many films from oblivion. In the late 1980s, when Amitabh Bachchan was facing allegations of corruption, the release of his film Shehenshah kept getting delayed. But Sayani kept the film alive by repeatedly playing its song, “Andheri Raaton Mein,” on Binaca Geetmala. His support and promotion helped keep Bachchan’s career afloat during a challenging time.
Sayani’s impact extended beyond the airwaves. He created a sense of community among his listeners through his interactive shows. He encouraged them to mail him their favorite songs and rankings, which sparked the formation of radio clubs and passionate letter writers across the country. One town, in particular, Jhumri Telaiya, became famous thanks to Sayani. Residents would send multiple letters each week, even bribing postmen to increase their chances of being mentioned on the show. Sayani’s sing-song style and genuine appreciation for his listeners made him a beloved figure in households across India.
Ameen Sayani’s contribution to Indian radio and Bollywood music cannot be overstated. His warm and kind voice, along with his dedication to promoting the art form, made him a true icon. His legacy will continue to resonate with generations to come, ensuring that his love for Bollywood music lives on.
