Imtiaz Ali’s acclaimed Netflix film Amar Singh Chamkila—a cinematic tribute to Punjab’s iconic folk artist—entered the 53rd International Emmy Awards with strong momentum, securing two major nominations: Best Actor for Diljit Dosanjh and Best TV Movie/Mini-Series for the film. However, despite the anticipation surrounding the project, the team returned from New York without a win.
A Night of High Hopes That Fell Short
The ceremony, held on Monday night in New York City, saw Amar Singh Chamkila competing with top global contenders. In the Best TV Movie/Mini-Series category, the film was nominated alongside Germany’s Herrhausen: The Banker and the Bomb, Chile’s Vencer o Morir (Victory or Death), and the UK’s emotional drama Lost Boys and Fairies, which ultimately took home the award.
Diljit Dosanjh, who received widespread acclaim for his raw and immersive portrayal of the legendary Amar Singh Chamkila, was also a strong frontrunner in the Best Actor category. He was up against David Mitchell (Ludwig), Diego Vasquez (One Hundred Years of Solitude), and Spanish actor Oriol Pla (Yo, adicto), who went on to win the award.
Despite the loss, Diljit’s presence and humility at the event won hearts. The Punjabi superstar greeted photographers with his signature namaste, representing Indian cinema with characteristic grace.
Team India Makes a Mark on the International Stage
Along with Diljit and Imtiaz Ali, the evening was graced by senior members of the Netflix India team, including Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content, and Ruchikaa Kapoor Sheikh, Director of Original Films. Their presence underscored Netflix India’s increasing footprint on the global entertainment landscape.
Imtiaz Ali Reflects on the Film’s Soul
Earlier, during a panel discussion at the International Emmy World Television Festival, director Imtiaz Ali offered a deeper insight into the emotional core of Amar Singh Chamkila. He described the film not merely as a biographical portrayal, but as a profound love story between an artist and his art.
He shared,
“For me, this was a love story between an artist and his art. A singer and performance are like lovers. At some point, you don’t do it for money or success—you do it for the performance itself, beyond logic, just to serve the audience. That was the strongest impulse in Chamkila’s character, and that’s what I focused on.”
His words reflect the film’s essence, which explores Chamkila’s meteoric rise, his devotion to his craft, and the cultural complexities that shaped his brief yet impactful journey.
A Loss, But Not a Setback
Although Amar Singh Chamkila did not clinch an award at the International Emmys, its nominations alone stand as a testament to the global recognition of Indian storytelling. The film continues to earn appreciation for its music, performances, and sensitive portrayal of one of Punjab’s most enigmatic artists.
For Diljit Dosanjh, the double nod marked a historic moment in his career. For Imtiaz Ali, it further solidified his reputation as a filmmaker capable of blending emotional depth with cultural authenticity. And for Indian audiences, Chamkila remains a story that resonates far beyond borders—an ode to art, rebellion, and an artist who left too soon.
