Satinder Chawla, 67, is basking in the spotlight following the screening of his new film Ek Lamba Jeha Houka. But first, let’s talk about this former banker, actor, sportsman, and doting grandfather who, having made Melbourne his home, is embracing every opportunity that comes his way.
Chawla was born in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh (central India), and began his first job as a banker with Punjab & Sind Bank after receiving a letter stating that once he attained “maturity,” he should come and join.
“When I turned 18, after the first year of my Bachelor of Commerce degree, I joined the bank in 1976,” he recalls with a laugh. He would go on to complete a Master of Commerce and a Master of Hindi.
But it was in 1985, when he was transferred to Chandigarh, that his parallel career as a badminton player took off. He went on to win awards in interbank tournaments. “I got this passion from my father,” he says.
For 15 years, Chawla was the face of the bank’s badminton and athletics teams.
Alongside his sporting achievements, Chawla also found himself increasingly drawn to community service, particularly helping the elderly, many of whom faced difficulties managing day-to-day affairs. He was also a blood donor.
After decades in the banking sector, Chawla moved to Australia to join his two sons who had settled here. Taking advantage of the Voluntary Retirement Scheme, he became the youngest to opt for it—much to the disappointment of his bosses. His wife, Jaswinder, who was running a successful textile business, also decided to hang up her boots.
The Chawlas’ Australian journey and new innings in life began in 2011.
Once in Australia, Chawla found himself doing what he loves—volunteering at Melbourne Airport, a role he thoroughly enjoyed. He guided passengers and assisted staff. “I am always happy to help people by the grace of God,” he says.
Chawla vividly recalls finding an elderly passenger’s lost bag and handing it over to security. When the distressed woman approached him and was later reunited with her bag, which contained all her documents and valuables, she broke down in tears. “I got a lot of blessings.”
What was particularly enjoyable about volunteering, says Chawla, was the exposure it offered. “The airport was like a swimming pool of languages. I used to greet people in multiple languages: ‘Ni hao’ to Chinese passengers, and local greetings to people from India, Pakistan, and beyond. I even picked up some slang and accents. I loved every bit of it.”
When a kind chaplain who worked alongside him suggested he apply for a job, Chawla took the advice to heart. Soon, he was both working in customer care and continuing his volunteer work at the airport. At one point, he was even recognised with a Best Seller award at Duty Free. His association with the airport spanned eight years.
Chawla continued his love for sports in Australia by founding the Landmark Community Sports Club in his suburb Craigieburn. It began with casual table tennis games at home, soon expanding to badminton and softball cricket as more community members joined in. Today, it keeps the community active and connected.
When the Gold Coast hosted the Sudirman Cup, the World Team Badminton Championships, in 2017, Chawla competed and won medals. He also participated in the Sikh Games in 2018 and 2019, securing medals in badminton at both events.
Living in the suburb of Craigieburn, Chawla’s dedication to community initiatives earned him the role of AFL Multicultural Ambassador. He also became an independent member of the Victorian Sikh Gurdwaras Council.
With all these varied experiences behind him, an unexpected opportunity came knocking—Chawla found himself stepping into the world of films.
But just to rewind a bit, Chawla says, “My mother used to pull me in to sing a song or do the bhangra, something I became quite good at.”
The first time a young community member asked him to play a father’s role in a short film, Chawla simply shrugged and said, “Take me to play a game of badminton instead.”
Eventually, he gave in. Strings, by Sandeep Raj and Puneet Gulati, was shot in his home in 2014, marking his first appearance in front of the camera. Soon after, filmmaker Gurmeet Sran cast him in The Hidden Truth. This was followed by another short film, Haloona, and many more.
To date, Chawla has acted in over 100 short films and nine feature films. His latest, Ek Lamba Jeha Houka, a moving portrayal of life’s struggles, successes, and enduring relationships, was screened recently. Big Daddy, produced by Keshav Dwivedi and directed by Imran Sheikh, saw a global theatrical release in 2017.
Some of Satinder Chawla’s cinematic highlights include the 2023 film Maa Sadke, which became the first Australian-made movie to premiere worldwide on PTC Box Office and PTC Punjabi. The film earned six nominations at the PTC Digital Awards in March 2022. Maa Sadke was produced by his own company, Chawla’s Creation & Dhindsa Films.
Beyond the big screen, Chawla’s face has appeared on billboards and trams as a community icon. He was featured by the Hume Council for his service, proudly saying, “I’m always for the community because the community has given me so much.”
Interestingly, he channelled his filmmaking and acting talents into producing powerful public health messages—ranging from COVID-19 safety campaigns to environmental awareness.
A grandfather, who loves spending time with his grandchildren, actor, community leader, and sportsman, Chawla biggest support is his wife.
One lesson life has taught him through this rich experience?
“I haven’t seen God, but I believe my parents were God. They taught me the true values of life—helping others, sharing what you have, and living with compassion.”
Connect with Indira Laisram on X
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
🎬 From banker to badminton champ & now #actor—Satinder Chawla's inspiring journey! Melbourne-based #Punjabi star shines in 100+ shorts & 9 #films. 🏸 Founded sports club, won medals & serves community. Family & faith fuel his passion. #TheIndianSun
🔗 https://t.co/ALa7JSnirT pic.twitter.com/5TCWblfgOJ
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) June 5, 2025
Donate To The Indian Sun
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun is an independent organisation committed to community journalism. We have, through the years, been able to reach a wide audience especially with the growth of social media, where we also have a strong presence. With platforms such as YouTube videos, we have been able to engage in different forms of storytelling. However, the past few years, like many media organisations around the world, it has not been an easy path. We have a greater challenge. We believe community journalism is very important for a multicultural country like Australia. We’re not able to do everything, but we aim for some of the most interesting stories and journalism of quality. We call upon readers like you to support us and make any contribution. Do make a DONATION NOW so we can continue with the volume and quality journalism that we are able to practice.
Thank you for your support.
Best wishes,
Team The Indian Sun
