Who was Amar Singh Chamkila?

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Amar Singh Chamkila, a Punjabi folk legend, rose from factory worker to iconic singer with his raw vocals and vibrant music. Here are some of the things to know about him.

1

Dhani Ram to Chamkila

Born Dhani Ram in 1960, Amar Singh Chamkila came from a humble Dalit background in Punjab.

2

Labourer Turned Singer

Despite working as a factory labourer, his passion for music led him to drama groups and hone his singing skills.

3

Mentored by a Legend

Impressing folk singer Surinder Shinda with his raw talent, Chamkila found a mentor and honed his songwriting skills.

4

High-Pitched and Vivid

Chamkila's unique style used vivid language, high-pitched vocals, and masterful Tumbi playing to captivate audiences.

5

Hits and  Devotionals

Songs like "Pehle Lalkare Naal" and devotional tracks like "Baba Tera Nankana" showcased his range.

6

The Elvis of Punjab

His immense popularity earned him comparisons to Elvis Presley, shattering sales records in his short career.

7

Tragic End

Chamkila's assassination at 27 alongside his wife and band members in 1988 remains an unsolved case.