Amar Singh Chamkila: The Elvis of Punjab who was allegedly shot dead by Khalistani militants

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Within seconds of the lanky, 5-foot, 10-inch teenager reciting a song written by himself, Shinda knew he had found his «shagird» (a Punjabi word for pupil), and took him in his wings immediately.

Dhanni's talent for songwriting in Punjabi and his distinctive voice led to him sharing the stage with renowned folk music artists of that era such as K Deep and Mohammad Sadiq.

However, facing financial challenges, Dhanni took a bold step in 1979 and collaborated with female folk singer Surinder Sonia to produce his own album. The album quickly gained popularity and became a success almost overnight.

Dhanni Ram was dead.

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Amar Singh Chamkila — a folk singer who would regale rural Punjab with his raw, witty and controversial lyrics till he was gunned down by suspected Khalistani militants on March 8, 1988 — was born.

During his decade-long career as a singer-songwriter, Chamkila, often referred to as the "Elvis of Punjab," captivated Punjab’s youth during a tumultuous period for the state.

Though many have criticized Chamkila for singing about extra-marital relationships, alcohol and drug use, and the bravado of the Punjabi man, according to his admirers his songs were only a reflection of society.

«They were an example of what was happening in Punjab at that time,» said Gunjit Chopra, who was chronicling the life of the folk legend back in 2016.

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