No, I am not really a friend of Ameen Sayani.
He was over 24 years older than I am, but he treated me and most people who knew him, like a friend. With a ready smile, he was quick to consent to any request made on his time. He was always so charming. I grew up listening to Binaca Geetmala. To me and an entire generation, Binaca Geetmala was more about that one familiar and much-loved voice rather than all the lovely songs that were played over Radio Ceylon during the programme.
Ameen Bhai and his inimitable ‘Beheno aur Bhaiyyo’ (he was already breaking the gender bias), was a trademark that was imitated by many ‘voices’ and mastered by none.
Ameen Bhai was good in English broadcasting, but the Hindi broadcasts were really what took him to the level of a legend.
Whether it was Saridon Ke Saathi, or the Bournvita Quiz Contest that he helmed after the demise of Hamid Sayani, his brother, or the many other (actually thousands) bits of radio spots, radio programmes, and even some little film roles, he was instantly recognisable and completely unforgettable.
I forget how I came to know him, but I recall him coming along with his son Rajil to an annual get-together I host. Even though he had difficulty walking, he graciously came, wished me, stayed for a while, charmed everyone and then left.
As President of the Rotary Club of Bombay, I wanted to honour him with an award. I called Rajil and within the hour, he had confirmed. He came, gave an impeccable acceptance speech, and on his way out he winked at me and said, ‘I spell my name Ameen.’ I looked at the award in horror and noticed it was spelt ‘Amin.’ I took the award back, corrected it, and sent it back to him.
We kept in touch through Rajil after that, but I never had the pleasure of meeting him again. Legends like him do not die. They live in our minds and our hearts. And anytime I think of popular Hindi songs, it will always be preceded by Ameen Bhai’s honey-dipped voice saying ‘Behno aur Bhaiyyo!’
Rest in Peace Ameen Bhai. Your mark on the broadcasting firmament in India will last forever.
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