How Surinder Shinda became Amar Singh Chamkila’s mentor?
Surinder Shinda and Amar Singh Chamkila are remembered as two of the most influential figures in Punjabi music history. Surinder Shinda was known as the “Grandfather of Bhangra” and became famous for hit songs like Putt Jattan De, Truck Billiya, and Balbiro Bhabhi. Chamkila, on the other hand, gained popularity for his bold lyrics and energetic singing style through songs such as Pehle Lalkare Naal, Baba Tera Nankana, and Talwar Main Kalgidhar Di. While Chamkila was tragically killed in 1988 along with his wife and singing partner Amarjot Kaur, Surinder Shinda passed away in 2023 after health complications, leaving behind a rich musical legacy.
Before becoming famous, Amar Singh Chamkila was known as Dhani Ram and worked in a hosiery factory in Ludhiana. He had a deep love for music but had not yet found a way into the Punjabi music industry. According to Surinder Shinda, their first meeting happened through his dholki player, who introduced the young singer to him. As soon as Shinda heard him sing, he recognized the raw talent and originality in his voice. Impressed by his passion and songwriting ability, Shinda decided to guide and mentor him.
Surinder Shinda played a major role in helping Chamkila understand professional singing and stage performance. He encouraged him to polish his singing style and gain confidence while performing live shows. Chamkila was eager to learn and spent time observing experienced artists during tours and concerts. Over time, his unique voice and relatable lyrics helped him build a strong connection with Punjabi audiences. With Shinda’s support, Dhani Ram transformed into Amar Singh Chamkila, one of the most talked-about Punjabi singers of the 1980s.
During his musical journey, Chamkila formed a successful singing partnership with Amarjot Kaur. Their duets became hugely popular because of their natural chemistry and energetic stage presence. Songs performed by the duo attracted massive crowds across Punjab and beyond. Surinder Shinda also shared that their bond slowly grew from a professional partnership into a personal relationship, and the two later got married. Together, Chamkila and Amarjot created a style of Punjabi folk music that still remains popular among listeners today.
Even decades after their deaths, both Surinder Shinda and Amar Singh Chamkila continue to inspire Punjabi singers and music lovers. Shinda is remembered not only for his own legendary songs but also for discovering and mentoring one of Punjab’s biggest musical stars. Chamkila’s journey from a factory worker in Ludhiana to a music icon remains one of the most remarkable stories in Punjabi entertainment. Their connection as mentor and student played an important role in shaping the history of Punjabi folk music.
- PTC PUNJABI
