The Indian rapper who overtook Kendrick Lamar on music charts

In the vibrant world of Indian hip-hop, a rapper named Hanumankind is making significant strides and capturing the attention of music lovers everywhere. His real name is Sooraj Cherukat, and he has quickly risen to fame with his energetic performances and catchy songs. One of his standout tracks, Big Dawgs, has not only topped charts globally but also briefly surpassed the popularity of Kendrick Lamar's diss track Not Like Us. This article delves into the remarkable journey of Hanumankind and how he has carved out a unique space for himself in the music industry. Hanumankind, at 31 years old, is known for his dynamic presence in music videos. In one particularly thrilling video, he performs in a maut ka kuan, a large wooden structure where drivers execute breathtaking stunts. This video has garnered over 83 million views on YouTube, while his song Big Dawgs has amassed an impressive 132 million streams on Spotify since its release in July. Hanumankind's music is characterized by its raw storytelling, often reflecting the realities of street life through explicit lyrics and powerful narratives. Born in Kerala, a southern state in India, Cherukat's upbringing was marked by travel due to his father's job with a prominent oil company. He has lived in various countries, including France, Nigeria, Egypt, and Dubai, but spent his formative years in Houston, Texas, where his passion for music truly began to flourish. Houston's hip-hop scene is distinct, with its own unique culture that differs from the well-known East and West Coast rap rivalries in the United States. In Houston, the use of cough syrup has influenced a style of music known as the 'screwed-up' remix, where tracks are slowed down to mimic the effects of the drug. Hanumankind has often expressed his admiration for Texas hip-hop legends like DJ Screw, UGK, and Project Pat, who have significantly influenced his musical style. After returning to India in 2021, Cherukat made the bold decision to pursue a full-time career in rapping, leaving behind a business degree and a corporate job at firms like Goldman Sachs. He realized that his true passion lay in music, a pursuit he had previously only engaged in part-time. His music reflects his journey of reconnecting with his Indian roots while also embracing his diverse background. Hanumankind's songs often tackle the struggles faced by people in southern India, blending traditional sounds with contemporary beats. In one of his tracks, he boldly addresses societal issues, stating, 'We got issues in our nation cause there's parties at war. ' This demonstrates his willingness to confront important topics through his art. Unlike many mainstream rap artists who focus on wealth and luxury, Hanumankind offers a different perspective in his music. He highlights the lives of stunt performers from impoverished backgrounds, emphasizing their bravery and dedication. He believes that these individuals are the true 'big dogs' in the industry. However, his music has not been without criticism. Some listeners argue that his English lyrics may limit his appeal to Indian audiences, while others feel that he closely mimics Western artists, which detracts from his authenticity. Abid Haque, a PhD student, noted that while Hanumankind's music showcases South Asians in the Western rap scene, it sometimes feels disconnected from Indian reality. Hanumankind himself has shared that returning to India has helped him navigate his sense of belonging. He feels that his experiences have shaped his understanding of music and culture. He has stated, 'I’m not an Indian rapper, but I’m a rapper from India,' indicating that he views himself as part of a broader global music landscape. The rapper has faced online criticism for not conforming to traditional expectations of Indian identity. Some international listeners struggle to accept him as an Indian artist due to his unique style, while some in India wish he would align more closely with their perceptions of Indian culture. Despite this, many fans appreciate his ability to blend various influences and create a sound that resonates with a diverse audience. Arnab Ghosh, a psychiatrist from Delhi, expressed that Hanumankind's music feels universal and can be enjoyed by listeners from all over the world. The journey of Hanumankind exemplifies the challenges and triumphs of an artist striving to redefine what it means to be a rapper in today's world. He believes in staying true to his roots while also adapting to the ever-changing music landscape. As he wisely stated, 'You keep certain things as your roots, but it’s up to you to adapt to the environment and go with the flow, as long as you don’t compromise on integrity.