Mumbai, Sep 29 (NationPress) Director Imtiaz Ali expresses that certain films emerge not from logical reasoning but from deep emotional pulls, and 'Amar Singh Chamkila' is a prime example of this. Recently nominated for the International Emmy Awards, the film has left both audiences and Ali feeling ecstatic and deeply moved. In an exclusive conversation with IANS, the director revealed how a strong sense of purpose drew him to narrate the tale of Punjab.

Ali noted that during his film shoots in Punjab, the name Chamkila frequently came up, yet he never felt adequately prepared to explore his story.

He mentioned that his limited understanding and the right issues had held him back. "Every time I went to shoot in Punjab, I heard tales of Chamkila – 'You know, in the 1980s, he was an unparalleled figure. No other musical icon in Punjab matched his influence. His life was both dramatic and tragic,' they would tell me." They often asked, "Why haven't you considered making a film about him?"

Ali continued, "I later realized that numerous friends and industry colleagues in Bombay had attempted to bring his story to the screen. I never considered it because my knowledge was minimal at that time, and I was aware of certain legal complications regarding the film rights."

He elaborated on how Chamkila's film seemed destined for him, recalling, "One day, a man named Harpreet unexpectedly walked into my office during the pandemic, informing me he had secured the film rights for the first time and wished for me to take on the project."

Ali added, "He had no connections to the film industry, yet he believed I was the right person for the job. A stranger can sometimes offer more than a billionaire ever could." For Imtiaz Ali, the narrative of Chamkila's remarkable rise and tragic demise was waiting to be unveiled. "In many ways, it felt like destiny," he stated, describing the project as a significant opportunity.

Discussing 'Amar Singh Chamkila' with IANS, Monika Shergill, VP of Content at Netflix, remarked that the film's global acclaim at the International Emmy Awards illustrates how profoundly local narratives can resonate on an international scale. "This film belongs to everyone. It is heartening as an Indian to witness such a unique film receive international recognition," she expressed.

She further elaborated, "I believe the world is beginning to recognize the power of music in storytelling. If we observe the success of 'K-pop Demon Hunters,' it's the top film on Netflix currently, with its music trending globally. Chamkila, however, predated that phenomenon."

Shergill continued, "With Chamkila garnering nominations and accolades, coupled with its social media presence, songs, and reels, the world is engaging with diverse narratives from India."

She cited other successful films, stating, "The same can be said for 'RRR,' particularly with the way 'Natu Natu' gained traction. I believe Chamkila is on par with those greats, bringing Indian culture to a global audience and offering a unique storytelling framework. The harmonious blend of story and music is defining for audiences everywhere—it's a remarkable achievement for Chamkila."

'Amar Singh Chamkila', which premiered in 2024, stars Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra in lead roles. –IANS