‘An experience of a lifetime’

Parineeti Chopra and Diljit Dosanjh say being part of Amar Singh Chamkila was an enriching and fulfilling episode in their lives

SINGING AND ACTING IN THE FILM ENABLED ME TO SHOWCASE BOTH MY TALENTS AT THE SAME TIME, AND IT PUTS ME IN THE SEVENTH HEAVEN. SHOOTING CHAMKILA WAS LIKE MEDITATION.”

— PARINEETI CHOPRA

One of the most famous and saleable musicians of the nineties, Amar Singh Chamkila’s life was cut short when he was assassinated, aged just 27. Director Imtiaz Ali brings Punjab’s rock star to life in Amar Singh

Chamkila. Parineeti Chopra and Diljit Dosanjh, actors and singers, discuss their experience. Parineeti said the film had spoilt her for all future projects. “Singing and acting in the film enabled me to showcase both my talents at the same time, and it puts me in the seventh heaven,” she said.

“I have worked with the best director, co-star and the best musician. I wonder what I will do in my next film. Meri toh band baj gayi hai,” she elaborated.

Talking about the work ambience, the actress said,

“shooting Chamkila was like meditation. The set was full on with music, yet very serene, calm and a disciplined set. It gave me a feeling of being in a Gurdwara.

It was an enriching and fulfilling experience.”

Diljit, on his part, said,

“Chamkila’s music is followed by innumerable musicians even today. Director Imtiaz Ali has portrayed the musician’s real life very poignantly on reel.”

“I could have never dreamt of working with Imtiaz, but he thought about me because of Chamikila,” he said. “Initially, when I heard that Imtiaz Sir was going to make a film on Chamkila, I wondered if he could do justice to this musician. But his take is very different and I am sure the audiences will relate to the life story of this musician.” Summing up, he said, “Getting the opportunity to reprise Chamkila on reel was really the experience of a lifetime. It has left an undying impression on me.”