2,6-Bis(2-benzimidazolyl)pyridine acts as tridentate nitrogen donor ligand and reacts with UO2Cl2·3THF to form complexes. It is reported as an efficient anion receptor providing chemical shift and optical modification based signals for the detection of acetate ions. 2,6-bis(2-benzimidazolyl)pyridine is a V-shaped ligand and its picrate Mn(II) complex has been prepared. 2,6-Bis(2-benzimidazolyl)pyridine is also reported as an optical sensor useful for the aniline recognition.