Amar Singh Chamkila

Who was Amar Singh Chamkila?

Dhanni Ram commonly known by his stage name Amar Singh Chamkila was a popular Punjabi singer, songwriter, musician, and composer. He is best known for his duets performed with his wife and singing partner, Amarjot. He is regarded as one of the best stage performers Punjab has ever produced.

Chamkila's music was heavily influenced by the Punjabi village life he was surrounded by growing up. He commonly wrote songs about extra-marital relationships, coming of age, drinking, drug use, and the hot tempers of Punjabi men. He earned a controversial reputation, with his detractors regarding his music obscene, and his supporters regarding it a truthful commentary on Punjabi culture and society.

His best-known hits include "Pehle Lalkare Naal" and his devotional songs "Baba Tera Nankana" and "Talwar Main Kalgidhar Di". Though he never recorded it himself, he wrote the widely popular "Jatt Di Dushmani" which has been recorded by many Punjabi artists.

Chamkila and Amarjot, and two members of their band were murdered on March 8, 1988.