2023 had been a great year for Indian film industry. With Pathan setting the pace, there were many that soon followed the race. From Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway, to Jawan , Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, Gadar 2, OMG2, Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahanii, Sam Bahadur and Animal. There were so many spectacular films which not just got box office success but were critically acclaimed too.
Start of 2024 has been a lull period for Bollywood again as none of the films have been successful at the box office. Big budget and big starrer like ‘Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan’ proved to be disastrous. However, there’s a film that’s been ruling hearts ever since it’s release on Netflix and that is Amar Singh Chamkila.
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, starring Punjabi heartthrob, actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra in lead roles, Amar Singh Chamkila is a biopic of a popular Punjabi singer who was shot dead in late 80s. Amar Singh Chamkila came from an underprivileged background and went on to become the most influential singer of Punjab in 70s and 80s. High pitch vocals, indecent and sexually suggestive lyrics which drew attention on extramarital affairs, alcohol and drugs which were written by himself, made him the ‘Elvis of Punjab’. Despite his popularity, Chamkila always remained a slave to hus audiences.
Chamkila was shot dead at the age of 27 along with his wife and co-singer Amarjot Kaur and 2 others from his troupe while he reached to perform at a wedding in Mehsampur. The Film “Amar Singh Chamkila” illuminates the tumultuous life of the legendary Punjabi singer, whose music captivated millions. Directed with finesse, the film seamlessly weaves together Chamkila’s journey, portraying his highs and lows with raw authenticity. From his early life, to his rise to stardom, his second marriage to Amarjot Kaur and eventually his death. At its core, “Amar Singh Chamkila” is a meditation on fame, artistry, and the human condition. It explores the price of success and burden of expectations.
Speaking of direction, Imtiaz Ali is known for redefining romance in Indian cinema. Right from Socha Na Tha to Jab We Met, Rockstar, Tamasha, Love Aaj Kal and now Amar Singh Chamkila, Imtiaz Ali’s films have all been about self discovery. He has always brought to fore the most humane side of his lead characters and not portrayed them as some ‘Avatars’ who led an extraordinary life. Chamkila again is not a hero, and as a viewer while watching the film, one will keep on thinking if Chamkila was wrong because he wrote vulgar lyrics or if those who listened to his songs were wrong or if the society that acts as a moral police is wrong. Imtiaz Ali masterfully navigates Chamkila’s complex narrative, capturing the essence of his artistry while delving into the depths of his psyche. The pacing is taut, keeping viewers engrossed from start to finish, while the nuanced portrayal of Chamkila’s flaws adds layers of depth to the narrative.
Diljit Dosanjh as Chamkila and Parineeti Chopra as Amarjot Kaur are beyond extraordinary. The supporting cast also shines, breathing life into the characters that populate Chamkila’s world. The editing of the film is excellent and the viewers get a glimpse of the original Chamkila during the peak of his stardom when he performed the ‘akhadas’ in Punjab. The film also sheds light on the unrest in Punjab during 1984 and how Chamkila’s music became an escapism for the people.
The true soul of the film is the music. The soul stirring compositions of A.R. Rahman and powerful lyrics penned by Irshad Kamil transcends one directly to the Punjab of 80s. Baja, Tu Kya Jaane, Ishq Mitaye and the poignant Vida Karo each song is nothing less than a masterpiece. Also, an added bonus is Chamkila’s original songs that are rightly blended in the story and gives an insight of his life and work to the non-Punjabi audiences.
The mystery remains unsolved as to who killed Chamkila? Was it his contemporaries who got jealous of his stardom, the friends who turned foes, or was it the custodians of faith and religion? With “Amar Singh Chamkila,” director Imtiaz Ali has crafted a poignant and thought-provoking biopic that pays homage to a flawed yet unforgettable legend. With stellar performances, evocative music, and deft direction, this film is a must-watch for cinephiles and music lovers alike.