Mayodeen Ackbarali

Mayodeen Ackbarali was born on May 13, 1940, in Freeport, Trinidad, West Indies. From his earliest days, the melodies of Indian film and devotional music filled his heart with longing and purpose. As a young boy, he would sit by the radio, listening intently, memorising lyrics and absorbing every nuance, quietly nurturing his dream of one day becoming a singer of distinction. Gifted with a naturally rich and expressive voice, Mayodeen became widely admired as a remarkable interpreter of the songs of the legendary Mohammed Rafi, whose style he emulated with both reverence and authenticity. Among his many favourites was the poignant “Lo Khoon Se Khoon Juda Hua” from the 1959 film “Main Nashe Mein Hoon,” a song he rendered with deep emotion, touching the hearts of all who listened.

His talent earned him a place as a grand finalist in the renowned Mastana Bahar programme, where he placed sixth, an impressive achievement that further cemented his name in the local Indian cultural landscape. Throughout his distinguished career, Mayodeen sang with several of Trinidad and Tobago’s leading orchestras, including the Naya Zamana Orchestra, the BWIA National Indian Orchestra, and the Naya Aakash Orchestra. His artistry carried him beyond local shores when he toured with the BWIA National Indian Orchestra and performed at the prestigious Roy Thomson Hall in Canada, where his performance received glowing praise.

Mayodeen was also a familiar and cherished voice on radio, frequently featured on the morning programme hosted by the great Moean Mohammed. His presence on air further endeared him to countless listeners who began their day uplifted by his songs. Over the years, he shared the stage with many distinguished artistes, including Ustad Haniff Mohammed, Jameer Hosein, King Ratiram, Lalchand (Rafi) Singh, Narsaloo Ramaya, Harold Boodoo, Satrohan Maharaj, Narie Mahabir, Premchand Jagdeo, Polly Sookraj, and Sagar Sookraj, among many others. On every stage he graced, his polished delivery, heartfelt expression, and commanding presence left audiences deeply moved and thoroughly satisfied.

On December 28, 2007, this beloved son of the soil answered the call of his Creator and returned to his Lord. We pray that Allah (Subḥānahu wa Taʿālā) forgave his shortcomings, accepted his good deeds, and granted him Jannatul Firdaus, the highest rank in Paradise. Though his earthly voice has fallen silent, the echoes of his songs continue to resonate in the hearts of his family, friends, and loyal admirers, an everlasting melody that time itself cannot erase. Mayodeen Ackbarali’s legacy was one of dedication, humility, and cultural pride. Though he is no longer with us in person, he lives on in cherished memories and timeless melodies, an enduring symbol of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich musical heritage and cultural tradition.

“Do you have a special memory captured on film or audio? Please email any photos, videos, or audio recordings you may have to hindisongstt@gmail.com. We are looking to preserve the many beautiful moments shared with the outstanding Mayodeen Ackbarali.”(Copyright Nisha Sharma 2026).