Amar Singh Chamkila, born as Dhanni Ram on July 21, 1960, was a renowned Indian singer and musician of Punjabi music. His vivid language, high-pitched vocals, and novel compositions accompanied by tumbi made him popular. His music was influenced by the Punjabi village life in which he grew up.
Chamkila’s Musical Journey
Chamkila’s journey into the music industry began when he approached Surinder Shinda in 1979. Recognizing his talent, Shinda took him under his wing, and Chamkila went on to play alongside Punjabi folk artists such as K. Deep and Mohammad Sadiq. He wrote several songs for Shinda before deciding to pursue a solo career.
Adopting the stage name Amar Singh Chamkila – Chamkila in Punjabi means “one that glitters” – he first partnered up with the female vocalist Surinder Sonia. The pair recorded eight duets and released the album “Takue Te Takua” in 1980. The cunningly worded lyrics, which he had written himself, became hits across Punjab.
The Mysterious Assassination of Chamkila
On March 8, 1988, at the height of his popularity, Chamkila and his second wife Amarjot were killed along with two members of their band in an assassination that remains unsolved.
There are several theories about why they were killed. One theory suggests that Chamkila’s provocative and controversial lyrics, which often addressed social issues and taboos, had angered certain individuals or groups, leading to his assassination. Some believe that his outspokenness on sensitive topics might have provoked retaliation from conservative or extremist elements within society.
Another theory points to professional rivalry. Chamkila’s popularity was growing not only in Punjab but overseas as well. His popularity led to jealousy or resentment among his peers or competitors, resulting in his murder.
The third theory blames the militancy period in the state. During that period, insurgency and the Khalistan movement were at their height in Punjab. Many Khalistani leaders opposed Chamkila’s suggestive lyrics, and they would frequently threaten him and demand money under the guise of protection. He refused to give money to them.
Despite various speculations, the exact reason behind Amar Singh Chamkila’s murder and the motive and perpetrators remain unknown. The case remains one of the most infamous mysteries in the history of Punjabi music.
Biographical Movie: A Tribute to Chamkila
In 2024, a biographical drama film based on the life of Amar Singh Chamkila was released. Directed, produced, and co-written by Imtiaz Ali, the film starred Diljit Dosanjh in the titular role, with Parineeti Chopra as his wife, Amarjot. The film’s music was composed by A. R. Rahman, with lyrics written by Irshad Kamil. The film premiered on Netflix on April 12, 2024.
Chamkila’s Famous Songs
Chamkila’s first recorded song was “Takue Te Takua”, and his hits include “Pehle Lalkare Naal” and the devotional songs “Baba Tera Nankana”, “Tar Gayi Ravidas Di Pathri”, and “Talwar Main Kalgidhar Di”. His songs continue to be popular and are played at various occasions across Punjab.
Amar Singh Chamkila’s life and death continue to intrigue music lovers and historians alike. His legacy lives on in his music, and his influence can still be felt in the Punjabi music industry today.
