Ameen Sayani’s legacy as a broadcaster and the iconic presenter of Binaca Geetmala is deeply intertwined with the unique circumstances of B.V. Keskar’s era and his stance on Hindi film music. The ban on film music by Keskar, the first Indian information and broadcasting minister, paved the way for Sayani’s illustrious career and the unparalleled success of Binaca Geetmala.

Keskar’s Ban and Sayani’s Opportunity

Keskar’s prohibition of film music on All India Radio (AIR) created a void in the airwaves, leaving film producers and record companies scrambling to publicize their songs. Seizing this opportunity, Radio Ceylon emerged as a beacon of hope, leveraging its powerful short-wave transmitter to broadcast programs to India and beyond.

Binaca Geetmala: A Cultural Phenomenon

Generations of Indians tuned in to Binaca Geetmala, airing every Wednesday at 8 pm, to hear Sayani’s soothing voice. Named after a toothpaste brand, the program featured 16 songs ranked by popularity, with Sayani’s warm demeanor endearing him to millions. His signature phrases like “behnon aur bhaiyon” and “aur ab agli badaan par” became iconic, resonating with listeners across the nation.

Listener Engagement and Memorable Moments

The selection of songs on Binaca Geetmala was based on postcards received from listeners, offering a unique interactive experience. Sayani’s habit of reading out postcards from obscure locations like Jhumri Talaiya and Rajnandgaon added to the program’s charm, turning these places into cultural references and memes.

Journey to Broadcasting Stardom

Sayani’s journey into commercial broadcasting was influenced by his elder brother Hamid, who ran the popular show Binaca Hit Parade. Sayani’s clear communication skills and command of simple Hindustani were honed by his mother, Kulsum Sayani, following Mahatma Gandhi’s directive to promote literacy through accessible language.

Enduring Legacy and Continued Success

Despite challenges and changes in sponsorship, Binaca Geetmala continued to thrive under Sayani’s leadership for a remarkable 42 years. The program transitioned to All India Radio in the 1970s, further solidifying Sayani’s status as a broadcasting icon. His voice remained a fixture in Indian households, captivating audiences with his timeless charm.

Ameen Sayani’s contributions to Indian broadcasting are immeasurable, shaping the cultural landscape and influencing generations of listeners. His enduring popularity and unmatched dedication to his craft make him a true legend in the realm of radio and entertainment.