Amar Singh Chamkila's Mehsampur director reveals meeting late singers murderer

Imtiaz Ali’s latest directorial venture, "Amar Singh Chamkila," has captured the hearts of audiences on Netflix. Starring Parineeti Chopra and Diljit Dosanjh, the film delves into the life of the legendary Punjabi singer and his wife, Amarjot Kaur, whose tragic assassination in 1998 continues to be shrouded in mystery.

While the real-life events surrounding Chamkila's death remain unresolved, revelations from Kabir Singh Chowdhury, director of the mockumentary(mock documentary) "Mehsampur," add a chilling dimension to the story. Chowdhury disclosed in an interview with Hindustan Times that he encountered one of the murderers during his research for "Mehsampur." This unexpected meeting with a living perpetrator aimed to shed light on the motives behind the crime, though Chowdhury remained cautious not to overemphasize its significance.

The complexity of Chamkila's murder, according to Chowdhury, contributes to its unresolved status. With numerous potential motives and suspects, the case remains a perplexing enigma.

Chamkila's legacy as a pioneering figure in Punjabi music is celebrated in Imtiaz Ali's film. Renowned for his groundbreaking music and dynamic stage presence during the 1980s, Chamkila earned the title of the first superstar of Punjabi pop culture. 

His partnership with female vocalist Surinder Sonia resulted in the hit album "Takue Te Takua" in 1980, before he embarked on a solo journey in Punjabi music. It was during this time that he met and fell in love with his future wife and collaborator, Amarjot.

Tragically, their lives were cut short at the age of 27, leaving behind a void in the music world. Imtiaz Ali's poignant portrayal of their story, supported by Mohit Choudhary, Select Media Holdings LLP, Saregama, and Window Seat Films, pays homage to their enduring legacy while highlighting the unanswered questions surrounding their untimely demise.