Amar Singh Chamkila: Imtiaz Ali Revels How He Cast Diljit Dosanjh, Says 'A 5-minute Conversation...'

The trailer of Imtiaz Ali’s highly anticipated film Amar Singh Chamkila is finally out. It was launched at a grand event in Mumbai on Thursday which was also attended by the film’s cast including Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra. The film will be released on the auspicious occasion of Baisakhi i.e. on April 13.

The trailer revealed that the film was shot in real locations. It introduces us to Amar Singh Chamkila – Punjab’s original rockstar, who was often referred to as the ‘Elvis Presley of Punjab’. It also promises to take audiences to the vibrant and rhythmic world of Punjab’s folk music, right to the rustic Akhadaas (live music performances in villages) where Chamkila’s voice would once roar. The trailer also makes it clear that in the film, Parineeti Chopra will be seen playing the role of Amarjot, Chamkila’s wife and singing partner.

At the launch, Imtiaz Ali opened up on how he got Diljit on board for the film. “We were thinking about who we act in it. The first name that came up was Diljit paaji’s. But that time somehow we were thinking, maybe he won’t do it, maybe it won’t happen. I even remember talking to Angad (Bedi). Even he said, ‘Why don’t you talk to Diljit?’” Angad’s wife, Neha Dhupia, who was hosting the event, jokingly said, “Now, I am hoping Diljit recommends Angad for a film!”

Imtiaz continued, “I spoke to Diljit. I thought ‘Pata nahi whether it’ll happen or not. I thought I will have a five minutes conversation taken through the story, but it went on for an hour. What happens with actors is that when you are telling a story, if you like it, then that’s the actor you want. I believe without Diljit and Parineeti, this film couldn’t have been made.”

The film will stream on Netflix.