April 12 marked the release of Imtiaz Ali’s much-anticipated film “Chamkila,” featuring Diljit Dosanjh in an unprecedented look without his turban. Portraying , a legendary Punjabi singer, Dosanjh’s appearance stirred significant reactions among the Punjabi music community.
Renowned Punjabi pop icon Daler Mehndi recently joined the chorus of voices addressing Dosanjh’s departure from his traditional turbaned look. In an exclusive interview with India.com, Mehndi shared his strong feelings about the bold choice.
“When I watched ‘Chamkila’ and saw Diljit without his turban, I felt very angry because one should remain dedicated,” Mehndi expressed. “I also have a big movie coming up, and I have never removed my turban, even if I have to do something significant. What God has bestowed upon us in terms of our turban is more important than any role. May God give him happiness.”
Mehndi also reminisced about his first encounter with Dosanjh five years ago at a hotel. “When I went outside, I felt like I had seen him before. He was wearing a cap, and I thought if he is a familiar actor, he would definitely recognize me. However, he just walked past without acknowledging me. I was wearing a turban, and he was in a cap. It’s not like he didn’t recognize me, but he walked away.”
Despite his initial frustration, Mehndi acknowledged Dosanjh’s musical talent. “Later, when I listened to his music, I was very impressed. May God grant him more success.”
On the professional front, Daler Mehndi’s latest track “Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan,” released on July 25, showcases a groundbreaking collaboration with qawwali maestros Ustad Sher Ali and Ustad Mehr Ali. The song blends rustic and robust Bhangra with Balochi nuances and classical Dhamaal with Siraiki singing, exemplifying Mehndi’s vision of fusing diverse musical styles and traditions.
Chamkila is poised to be a significant milestone in Diljit Dosanjh’s career, despite the controversy. The film’s reception and Dosanjh’s daring role choice continue to be a hot topic within the Punjabi music and film industry.
