Amar Singh Chamkila director Imtiaz Ali gets surprised as a restaurant introduces two new dishes named 'Chicken Chamkila', 'Veg Chamkila' after his film title

Amar Singh Chamkila

Renowned filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, famous for his Netflix original film 'Amar Singh Chamkila,' recently shared a surprising and amusing discovery on his Instagram story. Imtiaz Ali, known for his poignant storytelling, was pleasantly taken aback when he noticed that a restaurant, The Bombai Cafe, had introduced two new dishes named after his film’s titular character, Chamkila.

The restaurant’s menu featured 'Chicken Chamkila' and 'Veg Chamkila,' paying homage to the legendary Punjabi musician Amar Singh Chamkila, the central figure of Ali’s biopic.

Food Menu

Imtiaz Ali’s Instagram story featured the menu from The Bombai Cafe, highlighting the second and sixth dishes on the list, 'Veg Chamkila' and 'Chicken Chamkila,' respectively. He expressed his surprise and delight at this unexpected tribute, tagging the restaurant's official handle and inviting his followers to check out these unique dishes. This gesture not only reflects the cultural impact of the film but also showcases the creative ways in which popular culture can influence and inspire various aspects of daily life, including culinary arts.

The Bombai Cafe’s menu introduction post on their Instagram also created a buzz. The post listed eight new dishes, including the two Chamkila-inspired items. The 'Veg Chamkila' dish features potatoes cooked with spinach, Badi, and Indian spices, tempered with ginger, garlic, and green chilies. The 'Chicken Chamkila' offers a similar preparation but with chicken, promising a rustic yet flavorful experience. The restaurant encouraged food lovers to try these dishes and provided contact details for reservations.

Imtiaz Ali’s film 'Amar Singh Chamkila' has been a significant hit, especially across South Asia. The film, starring Diljit Dosanjh as Chamkila and Parineeti Chopra as his wife Amarjot Kaur, depicts the life of the controversial Punjabi musician who rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated performer. Chamkila’s suggestive lyrics, deeply rooted in rural Punjabi life, were both adored and criticized, leading to pressure from religious and political groups.

The film’s success on Netflix, where it topped the charts in South Asia and reached the top 10 globally, reflects the enduring fascination with Chamkila’s life and legacy. The inclusion of dishes named after Chamkila at The Bombai Cafe is a testament to the film’s cultural resonance and the widespread appreciation for Chamkila’s music and story.