To the generation growing up in the 1960s & 70s, Ameen Sayani was the name that belonged to that unmistakable voice on the Radio (& countless shows) and captivated hearts across the country and continued for many decades till the winds of change took over the music world & his incomparable telling style sadly became a lost art !
So when around 2015, “the man with a golden voice” decided to return to radio for a second innings, it seemed like happy days were here again for music lovers like us. Ameen Sayani was then heard on Radio City 91.1 FM in progs. for which he had tweaked some of his old interviews and was presenting them with added research and more information. After tuning in to one such radio prog. I, who was by then a retired banker, sent him an e mail commending the choice of the singer and songs.
To my utter delight, the 84 year old announcer par excellence, promptly replied to me beautifully but briefly. I reproduce below for those who may find it interesting :
“Dear Mr. Somnath Sinha,
Thank you for your wonderful letter. The entire interview featuring Kishore’s tribute to Burman Dada will be played in “SKSKM” on 26/08/2015. But don’t miss any prog. in between. Best wishes. Ameen Sayani.
P.S. I was a very close friend and associate of Bank of Baroda, Bombay – for many years, until my health started declining. “
My E-mail sent to Ameen Sayani Saheb is also reproduced below for context :
“ Respected Mr. Ameen Sayani ,
I am one of the thousands of avid listeners of your popular radio programmes and am responding to the lovely tribute that you did , as usual so effortlessly, on FM this afternoon i.e on 21st July, on the incomparable legend that was, Kishore Kumar ! It was so utterly spellbinding to hear some lesser known gems from the Kishore magic box like “Jin Rato Ki Bhor Nahi Hai … “ from “Door Gagan Ki Chaon Mein “ and the lovable “ Munna Bada Pyara … “ which we sing to our 8 month old grand-daughter !
Sir, I am a retired bank officer of Bank of Baroda but for us, you have been a part of growing up and our obsession with film songs came largely through Binaca Geet Mala on Radio Ceylon and your inimitable style which remains ageless. You will remain an idol and inspiration to millions of Indians all over the world for your charming grace that still binds us to priceless wealth of vintage Hindi Film Music !”
Later, on few occasions, we found Ameen Saheb in the audience, quietly catching up on plays at theatres in Mumbai, then much advanced in years, yet so dignified and humble. Today, an era of most endearing & entertaining style of anchoring ended but it stays alive in hearts of music lovers with that inimitable call ‘Bahno aur Bhaiyon !!’
Working on Living 