Diljit Dosanjh, a multifaceted talent known for his prowess in Punjabi and Hindi cinema as well as his global recognition as a singer, is gearing up for his next venture in Imtiaz Ali’s upcoming film, Amar Singh Chamkila. Set to premiere on April 12 on Netflix, the film promises to be a significant addition to Dosanjh’s illustrious career.
In a recent interview, Dosanjh candidly shared insights into his childhood and his relationship with his parents, offering a glimpse into the formative years that shaped his journey to stardom.
Hailing from Dosanjh Kalan village in Punjab, Diljit recounted a pivotal moment in his upbringing when, at the tender age of eleven, he was sent away to live with a relative in Ludhiana. Reflecting on this period of transition, Dosanjh revealed that his parents made the decision without consulting him directly, entrusting him to the care of his mamaji.
“I was eleven years old when I left my home and started living with my mamaji. I came to Ludhiana leaving behind my village,” he recounted, highlighting the sense of detachment and solitude he experienced during this time.
Living in a modest room with minimal amenities, Dosanjh found himself disconnected from his family and surroundings, grappling with the absence of familiar comforts like television and mobile phones. Despite the challenges, he acknowledged the resilience and adaptability fostered by this solitary existence, recognizing it as a pivotal phase in his artistic journey.
Dosanjh expressed profound respect for his mother and fondly recalled his father’s gentle demeanor, noting the absence of intrusive questions or expectations from his parents during his formative years in Ludhiana. However, he acknowledged a sense of estrangement that developed over time, as he navigated the complexities of adolescence and identity formation away from his familial roots.
Reflecting on his journey as an artist, Dosanjh emphasized the transformative power of starting afresh, viewing each opportunity as a chance to reinvent oneself. With humility and introspection, he embraced the challenges of unlearning and rediscovery, recognizing the inherent value of embracing vulnerability and embracing new beginnings.
As Dosanjh prepares to captivate audiences with his portrayal of Amar Singh Chamkila, the legendary grassroots singer of ’80s Punjab, his personal narrative serves as a poignant reminder of resilience, perseverance, and the enduring power of self-discovery.
