Chandan’s journey as a writer was shaped by his early involvement in the political movements of the 1960s and 1970s. He was an active participant in the Naxalite movement in India, which led to his imprisonment during the Emergency period in 1971. This time in solitary confinement left a lasting mark on him, both personally and artistically, where his work began to explore themes of resistance, exile, and the impact of political upheaval on the individual. These themes remain central in his poetry, where he confronts not only the personal but also the socio-political dimensions of identity and belonging. 

Chandan has authored several notable works, including Chhanna (The Metal Bowl) (2007), Sadi Duniya (Our World) (2011), and Punarjanam (Rebirth) (2014). His poetry and essays delve into themes of identity, migration, and political consciousness, reflecting his experiences in the Punjabi diaspora. Through his writings, Chandan continues to contribute significantly to contemporary Punjabi literature. 

Chandan’s poetic voice is marked by its introspective quality, blending personal reflection with a collective historical consciousness. His poems evoke a powerful sense of place and identity, often using vivid imagery to convey the emotional and political landscapes of the Punjabi diaspora. In his celebrated 2007 collection Chhanna (The Metal Bowl), for instance, he explores the sense of displacement and the fragility of human existence through strikingly simple, though profound, metaphors: "The flat-bottom metal bowl / balanced on the mantelpiece roils / letting out sounds as if / slipping out of hand a filled cup / has just emptied itself." 

His poetry does not shy away from engaging with the painful and often traumatic history of the Indian subcontinent, particularly the partition of India in 1947, which remains a source of deep personal and collective grief for many in the Punjabi diaspora. Chandan’s work, however, is not only a reflection of loss but also a celebration of survival, resilience, and the complexities of cultural memory. 

Amarjit Chandan's contributions to Punjabi literature extend beyond his poetry. He has worked as an editor for various literary journals, including Panjab University’s Yadgar, and has been instrumental in fostering the next generation of Punjabi writers. His essays, often reflective and meditative, address a wide range of topics, from the politics of language to the intricacies of Punjabi culture in the diaspora. 

Through his multifaceted work, Amarjit Chandan has become a leading figure in contemporary Punjabi literature. His poetry is not just a form of artistic expression but a means of engaging with the complexities of identity, history, and displacement. His work continues to resonate with readers both in the diaspora and in the broader literary world, offering a nuanced and poignant perspective on the human condition. 

Chandan’s writing remains a powerful testament to the lived experiences of those who navigate multiple identities, cultures, and histories. His poetry, with its visceral and intellectual depth, challenges us to reflect on the past, confront the present, and imagine a more connected and compassionate future.