Satish Shah

(1951–2025)

St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, expresses deep sorrow at the passing of its distinguished alumnus, Shri Satish R. Shah, an actor whose artistry and humour have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and television. His loss is deeply felt by the entire Xavier’s college family.

Born in Bombay in 1951, Satish Shah completed his graduation with a major in History from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai in 1974, where he was known for his lively personality, quick wit, perfect comic timing, emotional depth and boundless enthusiasm for theatre and performance. Those formative years at Xavier’s sowed the seeds of an artistic journey that would later bring joy and laughter to generations of Indians. His training at FTII laid the foundation for the impeccable comic timing and versatility that defined his career. His versatility and effortless charm made him a familiar and beloved face across television and cinema.

From his memorable television roles in Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi and Ghar Jamai to his iconic portrayal in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Satish Shah brought to life characters that were both humorous and deeply human. In films such as Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Hum Saath-Saath Hain, Main Hoon Na, Kal Ho Naa Ho,” and Om Shanti Om, he transformed from a household TV name into a beloved figure of Indian popular culture. With every role, he reaffirmed that laughter, when rooted in empathy, could be both powerful and healing.

Shah’s talent earned wide acclaim, including the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actor in a Comic Role for Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. In 2015, he came full circle, joining the FTII society as a mentor at the very institution that nurtured his craft. As a judge on Comedy Circus, he continued to inspire and guide the next generation of comic performers.

As the Xavier’s family joins the wider artistic community in mourning his loss, we also celebrate his extraordinary life and enduring contribution to Indian entertainment. His body of work will remain a source of joy and learning for all who appreciate the power of storytelling and humour.

St. Xavier’s College extends heartfelt condolences to his wife and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and admirers across the world. We remember Satish Shah as a true Xavierite—one who made the world brighter with his laughter, kindness, and humanity. His legacy will continue to inspire students who dream of shaping society through creativity and compassion.

St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

Prof. S. M. Gandhi
Former Head, Department of Mathematics
St. Xavier’s College (Autonomous), Mumbai

17 August 1932 – 3 October 2025

Prof S. M. Gandhi was associated with the college for over 40 years, first as a student, then as a professor in the Department of Mathematics. He was the head of the department for the last six years until he retired in 1992. He had a very unique personality, very witty and sharp. His lectures were always very interesting, never a dull moment to be had. In the early days of his teaching, textbooks were hard to find, and Prof Gandhi was known to share his well-written notes with his students.

It was in the first few months of Junior College that Prof Gandhi addressed us, telling us that he would be taking extra late afternoon sessions for those interested in the art of mathematics. Very few of us decided to attend, but I am sure we all thank our stars that we did! He unraveled the mysteries of rigour and elegance in mathematics through these sessions.

The advice he gave was invaluable, like convincing me to stay at St. Xavier’s for Senior College instead of taking up Actuarial Science at Elphinstone college. He also advised me to study economics seriously, which I now regret not heeding at the time.

For the next three years, his rigorous yet humorous lectures made us like and attend all his classes. In mathematics, often coming up with the first line of a solution is key. He would start a solution, solve up to a point, then pause and say “The rest is donkey work – however, when asked, one must show that one is the best donkey”, and then solve the rest of the problem.

The habits he inculcated in us have become so innate, that when I took up teaching mathematics after working in a different industry for 30 years, I still recall the good practices he taught us. Prof Gandhi continues to live through us – the numerous students whose lives he has touched.

Forever in our hearts and teaching, wishing Sadgati to our beloved professor S. M. Gandhi.

Prof. Shailesh Goregaokar

Prof. Ajay Patwardhan

(1952-2025)

We observe with profound sadness the passing away of Prof. Ajay Patwardhanon21st August 2025.

Born on4th September 1952, Prof. Patwardhan devoted his life to the cause of education and scholarship. He served with exemplary dedication in the Department of Physics, St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, from June 1984until his voluntary retirement in October 2011, retiring asAssociate Professor. Beyond Xavier’s, he also enriched the academic community as visiting faculty in several other institutions under the University of Mumbai. His core area of teaching and erudition was nonlinear dynamics, a field in which he inspired many to explore the beauty of complex systems.

He was a teacher of rare commitment whose erudition and integrity left a lasting impression on colleagues and students alike. Generations of students cherish the memory of his lucid explanations of Physics, his patience, and his unique ability to awaken intellectual curiosity. His teaching was not confined to classrooms—it was a lifelong mentorship that shaped many careers and minds.

As colleagues, we recall his collegial spirit, humility, and unfailing sense of duty. He had a fondness for conversations over a cup of coffee, where ideas, humor, and wisdom flowed in equal measure—a trait that endeared him to many and that is now all too rare. Loved equally by students and teachers, he truly embodied the finest traditions of academic life.

His legacy endures in the knowledge he imparted, the values he upheld, and the many students he mentored with care and dedication. Today, we mourn the loss of an exemplary teacher of Physics and a cherished member of our community.

Today we pray for eternal peace and pay our respectful homage to our beloved ‘Pattu’. He will live forever in our memories!

Rajesh Singh

Head, Department of Physics,

St Xavier’s College 

Jim Masselos

1939-2025

A Pioneering Historian Who Illuminated Mumbai’s Social and Urban Tapestry Jim Masselos, the distinguished historian whose work brought the vibrant, complex, and ever-evolving history of Bombay (now Mumbai) to life, passed away on June 25, 2025, in Australia at the age of 86. An honorary reader in history at the School of Philosophical and Historical Inquiry at the University of Sydney, Masselos dedicated over six decades to unraveling the social, cultural, and political fabric of one of India’s most dynamic cities. His scholarship, marked by empathy and intellectual rigour, leaves an indelible legacy in the field of South Asian urban history. In his passing, Mumbai has lost not only a scholar but a friend who saw and celebrated its essence.

A Journey to Bombay: The Beginnings of a Lifelong Passion Masselos’ fascination with Bombay began in 1961 when he arrived in the city as a young scholar on a Commonwealth Scholarship to study Indian history. Enrolled at the Heras Institute of Indian History and Culture at St. Xavier’s College, University of Bombay, he completed his Ph.D., immersing himself in the city’s rhythms and contradictions. The bustling metropolis, with its diverse communities, vibrant markets, and pulsating crowd events, captivated him. As he wandered through Bombay’s bazaars, neighborhoods, and festivals, Masselos began to see the city not just as a place but as a living archive of human stories, identities, and interactions.

His early experiences, as detailed in his reflective essay in Bombay Before Mumbai: Essays in Honour of Jim Masselos, shaped his understanding of urban space and group identity. From the colorful chaos of Holi and the solemn processions of Ganesh Chaturthi to the charged energy of political demonstrations, Masselos observed how Bombay’s crowds defined its character. These observations became the cornerstone of his academic work, as he explored how space, time, and identity intertwined to create the city’s unique social history.

A Scholar’s Oeuvre: Writing Bombay’s Hidden Histories Masselos’ scholarship was remarkable for its breadth and depth, traversing the lives of Bombay’s elites and its most marginalized residents with equal care. His seminal works include Indian Nationalism: An History, which examined the evolution of India’s nationalist movement, and Beato’s Delhi: 1857-1997, co-authored with Narayani Gupta, which offered a visual and historical journey through Delhi’s transformation. He also co-edited influential volumes such as India: Creating a Modern Nation and Bombay and Mumbai: The City in Transition, which captured the shifting dynamics of urban India.

His essays and books delved into Bombay’s social history, from its religious festivals like Diwali and Mohurrum to its secular spectacles, such as Yuri Gagarin’s visit to Chaupati Beach in the 1960s. Masselos was particularly drawn to the city’s crowd events, which he saw as microcosms of its social structure. His meticulous analysis of demonstrations, riots, and festivals revealed how collective action shaped Bombay’s identity. For instance, his accounts of the 1969 riots, sparked by protests against politician Morarji Desai, and the devastating 1992–1993 communal riots offered poignant insights into the city’s turbulent moments.

Masselos’ work was not confined to academia. He wrote extensively for newspapers, making his insights accessible to a broader audience. His ability to weave archival research with lived experience—such as his vivid recollections of navigating Bombay’s streets during riots—lent his writing a rare authenticity. His pioneering research opened new perspectives on urban history, inspiring generations of scholars.

Bombay Before Mumbai: A Tribute to a Legacy

In recognition of Masselos’ contributions, 13 scholars came together to honour him with Bombay Before Mumbai: Essays in Honour of Jim Masselos, edited by Prashant Kidambi, Manjiri Kamat, and Rachel Dwyer. Published in 2019, the book explores 13 facets of Bombay’s history that Masselos illuminated, from its colonial past to its modern metamorphosis. The essays reflect his influence in shaping the study of South Asian urban history, particularly his focus on how localities, communities, and crowd events define a city’s character.

The book’s introduction praises Masselos for his “skill and empathy” in bringing Bombay’s hidden histories to life. Whether writing about the city’s elite or its “most humble denizens,” he approached his subjects with curiosity and respect, uncovering stories that might otherwise have been overlooked. His concept of “templates” or “mental maps”—patterns of movement and behavior that city residents follow—offered a novel framework for understanding urban life. This approach, rooted in his observations of Bombay’s neighborhoods and festivals, remains a cornerstone of urban studies.

A Witness to Bombay’s Turbulence Masselos’ personal experiences in Bombay added a visceral dimension to his scholarship. During the 1969 riots, he found himself stranded amidst burning vehicles and barricades, an episode he recounted with vivid clarity. From his friends’ balcony, he witnessed the city’s skyline punctuated by flames and heard the distant sound of gunshots, a stark reminder of Bombay’s volatility. The 1992–1993 riots, which tore through the city’s social fabric, further deepened his understanding of how communal tensions could fracture urban harmony. These experiences informed his work, grounding his academic inquiries in the lived realities of the city.
His reflections on these events, as shared in Bombay Before Mumbai, highlight his ability to connect personal observation with historical analysis. He saw riots not just as moments of chaos but as windows into the city’s social dynamics, revealing the interplay of identity, space, and power. His accounts of crowd behavior, drawn from both archival records and firsthand encounters, gave voice to individuals and communities often absent from historical narratives.

A Lasting Impact on Urban History Masselos’ influence extended beyond his publications. As an honorary reader at the University of Sydney, he mentored countless students, encouraging them to explore the intersections of history, culture, and urban life. His work inspired a generation of historians to look beyond elite narratives and focus on the everyday lives of city dwellers. His emphasis on the “social history of urban living” underscored the importance of understanding cities through the lens of their inhabitants’ experiences.

His contributions were recognized globally, with his work cited in academic circles and celebrated in public forums. Masselos was as a bridge between academic and popular history, with his ability to engage readers with vivid storytelling. His collaborations, such as with Naresh Fernandes on Bombay Meri Jaan, further amplified his impact, blending historical rigor with cultural commentary.

A Photographer, curator and art collector Jim Masselos fell in love with the city of Mumbai (Bombay), the Indian architecture and painting. Motivated by beauty and delight, he collected paintings from the great Mughal and Rajput traditions as well as Company, folk and vernacular art from across India. Alongside his academic career at the University of Sydney, he made a significant contribution to the scholarship and presentation of Indian art at the New South Wales Art Gallery, including his involvement in the exhibitions 'Divine and Courtly Life in Indian Painting' (1991), 'Dancing to the Flute: Music and Dance in Indian Art' (1997), 'Goddess, Divine Energy' (2006), 'Intimate Encounters: Indian Paintings from Australian Collections' (2008) and 'Indian Empire: Multiple Realities' (2010).

The New South Wales Art Gallery was honoured to hold the Jim Masselos South Asia Archive, acquired in 2011, as well as more than 280 textiles, paintings, prints and photographs donated between 2001 and 2024. Jim’s generous contribution to the Art Gallery’s collection of Indian paintings has made it one of the most significant in the country.

A Friend to Mumbai In his passing, Mumbai mourns not just a historian but a chronicler who saw its soul. Masselos’ love for the city was evident in his writing, which captured its vibrancy, diversity, and resilience. He understood that Bombay was more than a geographic space—it was a tapestry of human stories, woven together by festivals, protests, and everyday interactions. His work reminds us that cities are living entities, shaped by the people who inhabit them.

As Mumbai continues to grow and transform, Masselos’ scholarship remains a guide for understanding its past and present. His insights into the city’s crowd events, localities, and identities offer a timeless lens through which to view urban life. For scholars, students, and residents alike, his legacy endures in the stories he told and the questions he inspired.

Jim Masselos is survived by his colleagues, students, and the countless readers whose understanding of Bombay was enriched by his work. His passing away marks the end of an era, but his words will continue to illuminate the city he so deeply loved. As he once wrote, “There is so much in Bombay or Mumbai that is worthy of attention.” Through his scholarship, he ensured that this attention would endure.

-Hasnain Naqvi

Former member of the history faculty

St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai.

Dr. (Mrs.) Saramma Marselin Almeida

22 February 1940 – 15 June 2025

It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of Dr. (Mrs.) Saramma Marselin Almeida — retired Head of the Department of Botany at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and an extraordinary woman who shaped not just a department, but the lives and careers of many who had the privilege to know her.

To me, she was more than an academic mentor — she was a guiding light, a constant support, and, in many ways, a second mother. I was blessed to be her first MSc (Res) and PhD student, and her influence extended far beyond academic guidance. She gave me my first job at the Blatter Herbarium, opening the door to a lifetime of learning and professional growth. I remain forever grateful.

Born in Maramon, Kerala, to Mr. Thomas and Sosamma Verghese, she pursued her love for plants with fierce dedication, earning her MSc in Phycology from St. Xavier’s College in 1964. From a demonstrator to Head of the Botany Department and Director of the Blatter Herbarium, her 33-year journey at St. Xavier’s was one of relentless commitment and remarkable achievement. She was appointed Lecturer in 1975, served as Head of Department from 1982 to 2000, and held the role of Hon. Director of the Blatter Herbarium for two decades.

Her academic work, particularly the Flora of Savantwadi, remains a landmark in plant taxonomy. Over her career, she published 35 papers, four books, and co-authored numerous plant discoveries — including Tephrosia sara-almeidii, named in her honour by her husband and research partner, the late Dr. Marselin R. Almeida. Together, they proposed 77 new botanical names and discovered 12 new species.

Dr. Saramma's legacy includes pivotal contributions to botany education — from reintroducing the MSc program in 1971 to establishing the Dr. N. A. Irani Memorial Fund. Her vision helped build a generation of scholars, and her warmth kept them connected well beyond the classroom.

She served on multiple academic and administrative committees, contributed to state and national-level syllabi, and was a respected research guide whose students carry forward her torch. Her professional affiliations were wide-ranging, including life membership with the BNHS and roles in several scientific bodies.

She was the recipient of numerous honours, including the first Fr. Santapau Gold Medal for Plant Taxonomy and recognition from the Savantwadi education society. An award in her name — the S.M. and M.R. Almeida Award for Best Paper in Plant Taxonomy — continues to celebrate her lasting impact on the field.

Yet, behind all these accomplishments was a deeply compassionate woman. She lived with grace, humility, and quiet strength. Her children — Alice, Angela, and Thomas — carry forward her values, and her extended academic family mourns with them.

Her passing leaves an irreplaceable void, not just in her family or in Indian botany, but in the hearts of all who learned from her. I count myself among the most fortunate. May her memory continue to inspire us — in our work, our values, and our lives.

With deepest respect and affection,

Dr Rajendra D. Shinde,

Former Principal of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

MILIND REGE

(1938-2025)

In the wonderful, glorious world of sport, it is not given to all aspirants, who venture with stars in their eyes, to succeed in scaling pinnacles of excellence.

That glory is the preserve of but a few extraordinary individuals – champions – who are cast in a very special mould and who, because of extraordinary physical and mental genetic attributes – shine more luminously than their peers.

Importantly, their “stars have to be in conjunction”, as the expression goes – Lady Luck’ (a combination of factors) has to be on their side for sheer talent to blossom into success.

Milind Dattatreya Rege was blessed with cricketing talent aplenty as cerebral leader of men, wily offs-pinner and orthodox batsman.

But, unfortunately, the former cricket captain of St. Xavier’s College played at a time when legendary off-spinners Erapally Prasanna and Srinivas Venkataraghavan were in their prime and on their way to becoming the best bowlers of their era in the world.

There was just no room in the national team for the likes of Rege, however deserving he may have been.

Milind Rege was a neighbour, school and college-mate and ‘best friend’ of Test legend Sunil Gavaskar, and captained both teams to success with extraordinary aplomb as a talented all-rounder, and shrewd, inspirational captain.

In time, Rege came to be respected in knowledgeable cricket circles as possessing among the most cerebral cricketing brains and, cricket-wise, in the same league as the legendary ‘guru’ Vasu Paranjape.

Apart from being an astute State-level selector and mentor of many young aspirants who went on to play for the state with distinction, Milind was, for many years, dedicated sports secretary of Tata Sports Club, where he was employed.

 He also worked assiduously for many years at the Cricket Club of India, where he pioneered the practice of inducting in the Club, talented cricketing talent in the category of ‘Playing Member’ such as Sachin Tendulkar and Sandeep Patil.

I had the privilege of getting to know the affable Milind well over the years when I was involved with journalism and honorary squash administration.

In time, I developed utmost respect for him as person and loyal friend and have warm, abiding memories of convivial, uproarious times spent together in the company of Gavaskar and our mutual dear departed friend Gautam Thakkar, former Asian badminton champion.   

Paying heart-felt tribute to Milind, former swashbuckling Test cricketer Sandeep Patil wrote last week: “Milind Rege’s passing is nothing short of losing my support system. Along with his wife Raj, Milind was the driving force for me and a devoted servant of Mumbai cricket”.

And, while paying farewell to his ‘elder brother’, Sunil Gavaskar said inconsolably in MiDDay: “He had his first heart attack at the age of 24 … it speaks volumes for Mumbai cricket, and his determination, that he made a comeback a few years later.

“Milind had strong opinions and so may have upset a few people, but nobody could question his love and commitment to Mumbai cricket”. RIP.

-KHALID A-H ANSARI

Advocate Iqbal M. Chagla

(1938-2025)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Advocate Iqbal M. Chagla, a distinguished alumnus of St. Xavier's College, Mumbai, who left an indelible mark on the legal fraternity and beyond. He breathed his last on January 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and service.

Mr. Chagla was a student at St. Xavier's College from 1955 to 1957, where his brilliance and unwavering commitment to academics set him apart. Following his time at St. Xavier's, he pursued further studies at Cambridge University, London, cementing the foundation of a remarkable legal career.

Renowned for his legal acumen and eloquence, Mr. Chagla earned widespread respect as one of India’s leading advocates. He carried forward the legacy of his illustrious father, M.C. Chagla, with grace and distinction. Beyond his professional achievements, he was deeply admired for his humility, mentorship, and dedication to justice.

The Xavierite community mourns the loss of a luminary whose journey began within our college walls. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and countless admirers. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Principal, St. Xavier's College, Mumbai

Pankaj Udhas

(17/05/1951 - 26/02/2024)

आज सेंट ज़ेवियर्स कॉलेज का एक और झिलमिल तारा पंचतत्व में विलीन हो गया। Great artist, greater human being, Padmashri Mr. Pankaj Udhas has said, ‘अलविदा’ to this world. 

Lakhs and lakhs of music lovers like you and me are shocked, saddened, not ready to accept this news. कैसे स्वीकार कर लें कि अब पंकज जी से मिल नहीं पाएँगे?

It was in early 80s, university के बेफ़िक्री के दिन, ग़ुलाम अली, मेंहदी हसन, बेग़म अख़्तर को सुनते-सुनते दुनिया-जहान को भुला देने के दिन, उनकी ग़ज़लों को सुन बेवजह उदासी के दिन।  Suddenly the whole scenario changed, when Jagjeet Singh, Pankaj Udhas became the household name for Ghazals. पंकज जी की ग़ज़लों के शब्द आसान थे, अपने आस-पास के थे, धुनें इतनी सहज-सरल कि हर शख़्स उन्हें गुनगुनाने लगा, पंकज उधास भारत के ही नहीं, दुनियाभर के गीत और ग़ज़ल सुननेवालों के चहीते गायक बन गए। पंकज जी ने करीब-करीब 45 वर्षों तक संगीत की सेवा की, दुनिया-भर में फैले अपने सुनने वालों से बेइंतिहाँ प्यार पाया, सम्मान पाया।

शक्लोसूरत से ही नहीं, व्यवहार और स्वभाव से भी बड़े शालीन थे पंकज जी। (it's really very painful to use past tense for you Pankaj ji) Pankaj  ji was always well dressed, करीने से बने हुए बाल, चेहरे पर एक हल्की सी, ख़ूबसूरत सी मुस्कान। हिन्दी में एक शब्द है, ‘मितभाषी’, जो लोग पंकज जी से एकबार भी मिले होंगे, मेरी बात को समझ पाएँगे।

In mid 80s St. Xavier's College organized ‘Pankaj Udhas Ghazal Night’. Fr. Misquitta  (the then principal) asked me to host the show (by then I had started teaching in the college) Hosting the show was like a dream come true, and that was the first time I met Pankaj ji in person. और फिर तो सिलसिला चलता रहा। Pankaj ji had his own charisma, people around him used to feel very close to him, बड़ी आत्मीयता से मिलते थे, but at the same time no one could ever cross the line, drawn by him.

एक किस्सा याद आ रहा है, Pankaj ji was invited as the chief guest for the college day function as St. Xavier's College has the tradition of inviting its own students as chief guest. I was the vice principal of the college, so I too was sharing the stage with him and all other dignitaries. When he was invited on the podium to speak, someone from the crowd hesitantly said- Sir please ‘चिट्ठी आई है’! Everyone was a little bit taken aback, since the College day function is very formal. All college Jesuits, the entire staff, all awardees, their parents, other students, jam packed college hall… Pankaj ji delivered a beautiful speech, shared his college day memories, his experiences in the field of global music and at the end he sang one verse of - चिट्ठी आई है, वतन से चिट्ठी आई है। हॉल में बैठा हर व्यक्ति ताल दे रहा था और पंकज जी की मखमली आवाज़ लोगों के दिलों को सहला रही थी।और फिर तालियों की गड़गड़ाहट। ऐसा नज़ारा कभी देखा न था, मेरी आँखों में आँसू आ गए। पंकज जी जब अपनी कुर्सी की तरफ़ लौटे तो हम सभी खड़े थे, मेरी पनीली आँखें उनसे मिलीं, मेरे काँधे पर वही उनका हल्का सा हाथ....

Pankaj ji always helped college whenever asked for any fundraising show, never ever charged a single penny.

Organizing a show called “Khazana” year after year has helped many many upcoming Ghazal singers, and at the same time helped many cancer patients. This was real Pankaj ji.

Farida ji, Nayab - Ojas, and Rewa we all music lovers are with you in this difficult time, it's a very difficult time for Pankaj ji's fans all over the world. पंकज जी अपनी गायकी से हम सबमें ज़िंदा हैं और हमेशा रहेंगे।

St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

Fali Sam Nariman

Remembering an Eminent Jurist, A Legal Eagle, and A Righteous Man with Strong Beliefs - Fali Sam Nariman (10 January 1929 - 21 February 2024)

“I have lived and flourished in a secular India. In the fullness of time if God wills, I would also like to die in a secular India."

-Fali S. Nariman

The legal titan, Fali Sam Nariman, who left an indelible mark on the legal landscape of India passed away on February 21, 2024, aged 95. A jurist par excellence, Nariman's remarkable career spanned over six decades, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations of lawyers. He was a senior advocate to the Supreme Court of India from 1971 and was the President of the Bar Association of India from 1991 to 2010. Nariman was an internationally recognised jurist on international arbitration. Honoured with the 19th Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2018, he was one of India's most distinguished constitutional lawyers and argued several leading cases.

Born in 1929 in Rangoon (present day Yangon, Myanmar, formerly Burma) to Parsi parents Sam Bariyamji Nariman and Banoo Nariman, Fali did his schooling from the Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. He graduated in Economics and History from the St. Xavier's College, Bombay (present Mumbai), followed by an LL.B  from the Government Law College, Mumbai in 1950. He stood first in the LL.B Examination and was awarded the Kinlock Forbes Gold Medal and Prize for Roman Law & Jurisprudence.

Nariman started his law practice at the Bombay High Court. After practising for 22 years, he was appointed a Senior Advocate in the Supreme Court of India in 1971. He was Additional Solicitor General of India from May 1972 to 25 June 1975, resigning from that post upon the Declaration of Emergency on 26 June 1975, being the only public official in India to have registered his protest against the suppression of the civil liberties.

Nariman argued in favour of Union carbide in the infamous Bhopal gas disaster case, which he later admitted was a mistake. He was instrumental in getting a deal between victims and the company outside court, which offered an amount of $470 million to the victims. He also argued in the famous case of the Supreme Court AoR Association, in which the Supreme Court took over the appointment of judges in the Higher Judiciary. He also appeared in many important cases like Golak Nath, S.P. Gupta, T.M.A. Pai Foundation, etc.

Nariman was the recipient of the Padma Vibhushan (in 2007) and Padma Bhushan (in 1991), respectively the second and third highest honours granted to civilians by the President of India. Both awards were for Nariman's contributions to jurisprudence and public affairs. He was awarded the Gruber Prize for Justice in 2002. He dedicated his awards to his alma mater Bishop Cotton School in Shimla.

Nariman was a President-appointee member of the Rajya Sabha (the upper house of the Parliament of India) between 1999 and 2005. He served as President of International Council for Commercial Arbitration from 1994 onwards, President of the Bar Association of India from 1991, Vice-Chairman of the Internal Court of Arbitration of the International Chamber of Commerce from 1989, honorary member of the International Commission of Jurists from 1988, and member of the London Court of International Arbitration from 1988. He was appointed to the Advisory Board of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development in November 1999, and served as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the International Commission of Jurists from 1995 to 1997. He represented the Gujarat Government in the matter of the Narmada rehabilitation but resigned shortly after attacks on Christians in the area and the burning of copies of the Bible.

In December 2009 the Committee on Judicial Accountability stated that it considered that recommendations for judicial appointments should only be made after a public debate, including review by members of the bar of the affected high courts. This statement was made in relation to controversy about the appointments of justices C. K. Prasad and P. D. Dinakaran. The statement was signed by Ram Jethmalani, Shanti Bhushan, Fali Sam Nariman, Anil B. Divan, Kamini Jaiswal and Prashant Bhushan. On 17 October 2014, he appeared for the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu J Jayalalitha in a conviction and obtained bail for her, which had earlier been rejected.

Fali Nariman embarked on his legal journey with unwavering dedication and an unyielding commitment to justice. His expertise extended to constitutional law, human rights, and commercial law, earning him a reputation as one of the foremost legal minds in the country. His contributions were not limited to courtrooms; he played a pivotal role in shaping legal discourse through his prolific writings and scholarly works including his autobiography "Before Memory Fades" - his celebrated and critically acclaimed international best seller. 

His autobiography reflects his concern for the welfare of the judiciary, his firm conviction in the principles laid down by the constitution and his views on the troubled relationship between political power and the Judiciary. 

Nariman was of the opinion that practising lawyers today are found wanting, and there exists a deep distrust for the legal profession. He believed that the legal profession is badly affected because the legal education system in India seems to have lost its ethical content. He was a man who never compromised on his principles. Over the years, Nariman was involved in several landmark cases that have shaped Indian law. 

For young lawyers in India, Fali Nariman will remain a beacon of inspiration. His commitment to upholding constitutional values, unwavering integrity, and fearless advocacy set a high standard for the legal profession. His courtroom presence and legal arguments were not just a testament to legal skill but also a demonstration of unwavering commitment to justice.

As the country mourns the loss of this legal luminary, let us remember Fali Nariman for his dedication to the rule of law, his relentless pursuit of justice, and his enduring impact on the legal fraternity. In this moment of grief, our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who have been touched by his wisdom and guidance.

St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai mourns the passing away of a great alumnus.

Fali Nariman's legacy will continue to resonate, guiding aspiring lawyers to emulate his commitment to justice and contributing positively to the legal fabric of our nation.

Rest in peace, Fali Sam Nariman - a true icon of the legal world, and a liberal in the constitutional sense of the word, defending the fundamental rights of citizens against an overbearing state.

St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai

Ameen Sayani

END OF A GLORIOUS ERA OF RADIO BROADCAST -

A Tribute to Ameen Sayani (21 December 1932 - 20 February 2024)

Legendary radio personality Ameen Sayani passed away at the age of 91.  With his passing on the curtains have fallen on the golden era of Radio Broadcast. His warm baritone brought joy to the lives of ordinary folks. His parents were freedom fighters. Additionally, his mother Kulsum Sayani was a social reformer, an author and an educator. His father Dr.Jaan Mohammad Sayani, was a physician, who treated poor patients for free, often paying for their medicines. Ameen Sayani considered his elderly brother Hamid Sayani who was also a prominent radio host and broadcaster in the 1950s as his mentor and his Guru in the field of radio broadcasting. Prior to radio broadcasting, Ameen Sayani assisted his mother in editing, publishing and printing a fortnightly journal RAHBER (1940-1960) for neo-literates, under the instructions of Mahatma Gandhi. It was simultaneously published in the Devnagri (Hindi), Urdu and Gujarati scripts as well in the simplicity that Gandhi advocated.

Interestingly, Ameen Sayani who redefined the Hindi radio was educated in English from St. Xavier's College and had to work hard to build his skills in Hindi. With a perfectly cool demeanour at the microphone and his trademark gentle and melodious tone, he hosted over 54,000 radio programs with over 19,000 jingles and spots. Binaca Geetmala on Radio Ceylon, an extremely popular programme, became synonymous with Ameen Sayani. It showcased the top choices of listeners in Hindi film songs, attracting countless households to tune in every Wednesday evening.

Starting in 1952 as a precursor to the ultimate countdown for Hindi film songs based on popularity, Binaca Geetmala became the sensation of Radio Ceylon. In an interview, Ameen Sayani revealed that the initial episodes of Binaca Geetmala were recorded in the studio of Xavier Institute of Communication. (XIC). By the late '70s, it had an estimated weekly listenership of around 21 crores. The show received an overwhelming response, with letters pouring in by the gunny bagfuls—reaching a staggering 65,000 per week. Geetmala transitioned to Vividh Bharati on All India Radio (AIR) from 1989 to the 1993. Besides hosting popular radio programmes like Binaca Geetmala and S. Kumar Ka Filmi Muqadama and Filmi Mulaqat, he also hosted the following: Saridon Ke Saathi (AIR’s first sponsored show), Bournvita Quiz Contest (in English), Shalimar Supermac Jodi, Maratha Darbar shows - SITARON KI PASAND, CHAMAKTAY SITARAY, MEHEKTI BAATEN, SANGEET KAY SITARON KI MEHFIL etc.

Ameen Sayani also appeared in the role of an announcer in various movies like Bhoot Bungla, Teen Devian, Boxer, and Qatl. He compered over 2,000 stage functions of all sorts in India, including musical variety shows, beauty contests, fashion shows, award functions, film silver jubilee functions, an International Film Festival closing session (in Delhi), concerts, seminars, workshops, and trade presentations. He further, compered stage shows abroad – in the US, Canada, UK, South Africa, UAE, the Netherlands and the West Indies.

In 2009, Ameen Sayani was presented with the Padma Shri award. Apart from this, he was a recipient of numerous awards such as: the "Hindi Ratna Puraskaar" by the prestigious Hindi Bhavan of New Delhi in 2007, Living Legend Award (2006) from loop federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry, with India Radio Forum, Kaan Hall of Fame Award (2003) from Radio Mirchi (FM Network of the Times Group), Golden Abby by Advertising Club, Bombay (2000 ) for the OUTSTANDING RADIO CAMPAIGN OF THE CENTURY ("Binaca/Cibaca GEETMALA"), Hall of Fame Award (1993) from Indian Academy of Advertising Film Art (IAAFA), Person of the Year Award (1992), Limca Book of Records

Gold medal (1991) from Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA) presented by Mr. K.R. Narayanan, then Vice-President of India.

As an alumnus of St. Xavier’s College, Ameen Sayani had vivid memories of his alma mater.

He fondly remembered his association with Dr. S. Naithani who was his young Hindi teacher at Xavier’s, Mahendra Kapoor (who later became a renowned playback singer) was his classmate and Vijay Anand alias Goldie (who became a famous writer, filmmaker and actor) was his junior at Xavier’s. He continued his association with his alma mater and enjoyed attending various functions in college the last being the farewell-cum-felicitation of Dr.Asha Naithani Dayama on 14th October 2018 in the iconic college hall.

 Ameen Sayani’s son Rajil Sayani also was an alumnus of St.Xavier’s College, Mumbai (B.Sc - Microbiology) in the 1980s.

St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai