Watch Mehsampur

Mehsampur is a 2018 Indian experimental film that explores the death and legacy of Punjabi folk singer Chamkila. The movie is directed by Kabir Singh Chowdhry and stars Chamkara, Chamak Chamkila, and Lal Chand. The film is set in the small town of Mehsampur where two filmmakers, a director and a documentarian, set out to make a film about Chamkila. The filmmakers struggle to get access to any archival footage of the singer, who was known for his provocative and controversial lyrics that openly addressed taboo societal issues. Chamkila's music was especially popular among rural Punjabi communities and he became a symbol of resistance against conservatism and social hierarchies.

The film follows the two filmmakers as they roam around the town speaking to locals, trying to get leads on where they can find Chamkila's archival material. They end up meeting Chamkara, a young man who is covering Chamkila's songs in local bars and music shows. Chamkara, who is haunted by Chamkila's unexplained murder, agrees to take them to the places where Chamkila once performed.

The film jumps back and forth between present-day Mehsampur and Chamkila's past, where he is shown performing in different venues and interacting with people. The story and setting of Mehsampur is inspired by real-life incidents, however, the film's storyline takes a fictional route to present perspectives on the cultural impact and societal limitations on artists and their art, which remain prevalent even today.

Apart from portraying Chamkila's life and work, the film also addresses broader issues of censorship, artistic freedom, and cultural appropriation. It combines elements of fiction, documentary, and experimental filmmaking to present an unfiltered view of the impact Chamkila's work left on the Panjabi community and the political reality of the time.

The movie is shot on location in Mehsampur and uses a mix of handheld cameras and static shots to create a raw, realistic atmosphere that allows the viewer to immerse themselves in the setting. The film's soundtrack features Chamkila's music and incorporates some new covers by Chamkara. The music adds to the immersive experience of the film, creating a sense of nostalgia around Chamkila's work while staying relevant even after his untimely demise.

Mehsampur received mixed reviews upon release. Critics lauded the film's attempt to reimagine the life of an iconic folk singer and the direction, which gives viewers a real sense of the world Chamkila inhabited. The movie has been praised for its unique style and focus on a cultural icon of the Panjabi community who's life and art resonate with Punjabis across the world. However, some viewers criticized the movie for its slow pace and disjointed storyline, leaving them unclear about its central message.

In conclusion, Mehsampur is a fascinating film about the legacy and cultural impact of Chamkila, offering a rare glimpse into the making of a cultural icon, in a world where artistic expression can be challenging. The film's raw execution and the way it transports us into the heart of Chamkila's world is a testament to the creative potential of cinema. Even though it remains a niche interest, Mehsampur highlights the wider cultural issues experienced globally when dealing with art, censorship, and societal challenges.