Chamkila: Diljit Dosanjh’s Upcoming Biographical Film on the Life of Punjabi Folksinger Amar Singh Chamkila

The Punjabi music industry has produced some of the most iconic and influential artists in South Asian music. Among them is Amar Singh Chamkila, a controversial yet highly popular singer-songwriter who ruled the charts in the 80s and early 90s with his bold lyrics and catchy tunes.

Now, Bollywood actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh are set to portray Chamkila in an upcoming biopic titled “Chamkila,” which promises to delve into the life and times of this enigmatic artist.

In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Chamkila, including its trailer, cast, plot, release date, and availability on Netflix.

Amar Singh Chamkila | Official Trailer | Imtiaz Ali, A.R. Rahman, Diljit Dosanjh

Who was Amar Singh Chamkila?

Amar Singh Chamkila, also known as Chamkila or Amar Akbar Anthony, was born on July 21, 1960, in village Saidpur Kalan, near Jalandhar, Punjab. He started his musical career at the age of 15 and quickly gained popularity for his unique voice, poetic skills, and ability to compose memorable melodies. Chamkila’s songs often dealt with taboo subjects such as alcoholism, drug addiction, violence, and infidelity, making him a polarizing figure among listeners. However, his mass appeal could not be denied, and he became one of the best-selling artists of his time, selling over 15 million records worldwide.

Tragically, Chamkila’s life was cut short when he, along with his wife, two backup singers, and their driver, were gunned down by unidentified assailants on March 8, 1988, while performing in Mehsampur, Punjab. The case remains unsolved to this day, adding to the mystique surrounding Chamkila’s legacy.

Chamkila Trailer and Plot Synopsis

Directed by Imtiaz Ali and produced by Karan Johar, the Chamkila trailer was released on April 17, 2023, giving fans a glimpse into the world of this legendary musician. Set against the backdrop of rural Punjab, the trailer showcases Diljit Dosanjh‘s uncanny resemblance to Chamkila, both physically and vocally. We see glimpses of Chamkila’s rise to fame, his tumultuous relationship with his wife and fellow singer Amarjot Kaur, played by Parineeti Chopra, and the controversies that surrounded him throughout his career.

According to reports, the film will focus on Chamkila’s formative years, his struggles to make it big in the male-dominated Punjabi music scene, and his eventual success despite facing numerous obstacles. It will also touch upon the darker aspects of his life, including the threats and intimidation he faced from various groups due to the provocative nature of his songs.

Diljit Dosanjh as Amar Singh Chamkila

There could hardly have been a better choice than Diljit Dosanjh to play the role of Amar Singh Chamkila. With his rugged good looks, powerful baritone, and natural acting prowess, Diljit seems tailor-made for the part. Having already proven himself as a successful singer and actor in both Punjabi and Hindi cinema, Diljit brings a wealth of experience and credibility to the project. His dedication to the role is evident from the way he has transformed himself physically, adopting Chamkila’s distinctive hairstyle, beard, and mannerisms to create a convincing portrayal of the late singer.

Parineeti Chopra as Amarjot Kaur

Joining Diljit Dosanjh in the lead role of Amarjot Kaur, Chamkila’s wife and singing partner, is actress Parineeti Chopra. Best known for her roles in films like “Ishaqzaade” (2012), “Shuddh Desi Romance” (2013), and “Golmaal Again” (2017), Parineeti has demonstrated her versatility as an actress in various genres. As Amarjot Kaur, she plays a strong-willed woman who stands by her husband through thick and thin, even as their lives become embroiled in controversy and danger. Parineeti’s chemistry with Diljit is sure to be one of the highlights of the film.

Release Date and Availability on Netflix

While an official release date has not yet been announced, sources suggest that Chamkila might hit theaters sometime in late 2023 or early 2024. Given the star power behind the project and the enduring popularity of Chamkila’s music, expectations are high for this much-anticipated biopic. For those unable to watch it in theaters, there is good news: Chamkila is expected to be available for streaming on Netflix shortly after its theatrical release, ensuring that audiences around the world can enjoy this captivating story from the comfort of their homes.

In Conclusion

With its compelling subject matter, stellar cast, and accomplished director, Chamkila promises to be a standout addition to the growing list of Indian biopics based on real-life personalities. By exploring the complex and multifaceted life of Amar Singh Chamkila, the film aims to shed light on the challenges faced by artists who dare to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. Whether you’re a fan of Punjabi music, a cinephile, or simply someone looking for an engaging and thought-provoking film, Chamkila is definitely worth keeping an eye out for.