Hanumankind: From Stage Fall to Global Stardom - The Rise of India's Rebellious Rapper

2025-07-28 12:00:17.908

Two weeks ago, during his first UK show, Indian rapper Hanumankind (Sooraj Cherukat) suffered a ligament tear after a stage fall. Despite the injury, he finished the performance, showcasing his dedication. His tracks, "Big Dawgs" and "Run It Up," have propelled him to international recognition, with collaborations alongside A$AP Rocky and Fred Again. He even performed at an event in New York, invited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, his success comes with responsibility; as a rare South Asian face in global rap, he feels compelled to address issues within India, such as mob mentality, religious divisiveness, and caste-based discrimination. His childhood, marked by frequent moves across countries, instilled in him an ability to connect with diverse people, a skill reflected in his music. He honed his craft in Houston, Texas, influenced by the city's rap scene, before returning to India, where he balanced a corporate job with open-mic performances. His first festival performance was a turning point, leading him to quit his job and pursue music full-time. Hanumankind's music blends cheek and grit, delivered with a unique flow. While rapping mostly in English, he incorporates Indian elements, like Keralan chenda drums in "Run It Up," to maintain a homegrown aesthetic. His stage name, inspired by the Hindu god Hanuman, has sparked debate regarding its interpretation within the context of Indian nationalism. He has faced criticism for performing at Modi's event, but defends his participation as representing India. However, his political views are evident in songs like "Catharsis," which tackles systemic corruption and police brutality. His new mixtape, "Monsoon Season," reflects his experiences and features collaborations with Denzel Curry and Maxo Kream. Despite the challenges of fame, he plans to focus on making music and embark on a North American tour once his knee injury heals.