Amar Singh Chamkila, born Dhanni Ram on July 21, 1960, in Dugri, Ludhiana, Punjab, was a popular Punjabi singer, songwriter, and musician.
Known for his unique blend of traditional Punjabi folk with contemporary themes, he gained fame in the 1980s with hits like “Pehle Lalkare Naal” and “Talwar Main Kalgidhar Di Haan.”.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Dhanni Ram
- Stage Name: Amar Singh Chamkila
- Born: July 21, 1960
- Age: 66 years old (at the time of death in 1988)
- Birthplace: Dugri, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, Musician
- Height:
- Parents: Hari Ram Singh (father), Kartar Kaur (mother)
- Siblings: Swaran Kaur
- Spouse: Amarjot Kaur
- Children: Jaiman Chamkila, Amandeep Kaur, Kamaldeep Kaur
- Relationship: Married
- Net Worth: $4,000 to $6,500.
Early Life and Education
Amar Singh Chamkila, born Dhanni Ram, was born on July 21, 1960, in the village of Dugri, near Ludhiana, Punjab, India. He was born into a Dalit Sikh family and belonged to the Ravidasia community.
His parents were Hari Ram Singh (father) and Kartar Kaur (mother), and he had a sister named Swaran Kaur. Chamkila grew up in a modest household and was deeply influenced by Punjabi folk traditions from a young age.
He practiced the Sikh religion and embraced Punjab’s rich cultural heritage, which later became the core of his music. For his education, Chamkila attended a local government school in Ludhiana, where he completed his early studies before taking on various jobs.
Despite limited formal education, he had a sharp mind and an extraordinary talent for writing and music, which later made him a celebrated figure in Punjabi music.
Career
Amar Singh Chamkila began his career in music during the late 1970s, initially working as a songwriter for other Punjabi singers. His powerful lyrics, often rooted in social realities and everyday village life, quickly caught attention.
He made his singing debut alongside Surinder Sonia but rose to widespread fame after teaming up with his second singing partner and future wife, Amarjot Kaur.
Chamkila’s songs touched on bold and controversial subjects such as extramarital affairs, alcoholism, and drug abuse—topics rarely addressed openly in Punjabi music at the time.
Despite criticism from conservative circles, his raw storytelling and energetic live performances made him immensely popular among the masses. Hits like “Takue Te Takua” and “Jatt Di Dushmani” became anthems in Punjab.
Chamkila was known for performing over 300 live shows yearly, often drawing huge crowds. His unique voice, gripping lyrics, and mastery of folk instruments like the Tumbi and Harmonium earned him the title “Elvis of Punjab.”
Tragically, his career was cut short when he and Amarjot were assassinated in 1988, just as he was reaching the peak of his popularity. Despite his early death, Chamkila’s music continues influencing Punjabi artists and remains deeply cherished.
Personal Life
Amar Singh Chamkila was married to Amarjot Kaur, his singing partner. Before his marriage to Amarjot, he was married to Gurmail Kaur, a woman from his village, but that relationship ended before his rise to fame.
Together with Amarjot,Chamkila had three children: Jaiman Chamkila, Kamaldeep Kaur, and a daughter named Amandeep Kaur, who was born shortly before their tragic deaths in 1988. Regarding his height, Amar Singh Chamkila stood at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm).
Discography
Here are a few songs from Amar Singh Chamkila’s discography:
- Pehle Lalkare Naal
- Takue Te Takua
- Jatt Di Dushmani
- Bhul Gayi Main Ghund Kadna
- Baba Tera Nankana
- Yaad Aave War War
- Naam Jap Le
Net Worth
At the time of his death, Amar Singh Chamkila’s net worth was estimated to be between $4,000 and $6,500. His income came mainly from live performances, where he was highly in demand across Punjab, and record sales. He also likely earned from small local endorsements and appearances.