Hanumankind, an Indian rapper whose real name is Sooraj Cherukat, is rising to fame in the global hip-hop scene with an amazing display of talent and creativity. Not only did his song “Big Dawgs” top the charts worldwide, but it also momentarily overtook Kendrick Lamar‘s diss tune “Not Like Us.” The BBC explores Hanumankind’s incredible ascent and what makes him unique in the hip-hop community.
A Stunning Launch: The Viral Trend Known as “Big Dawgs”
“Big Dawgs” was released in July and has captured the attention of viewers all around the world with its powerful energy and striking images. Cherukat, 31, energetically navigates the dangerous pit while drivers perform amazing stunts in the song video, which was filmed within a maut ka kuan, a spectacular stunt performance arena that resembles a large wooden barrel. The song, which was co-written by producer Kalmi Reddy and director Bijoy Shetty, has received 83 million views on YouTube and over 132 million Spotify plays, solidifying Hanumankind’s standing in the world.
From the Global Stage to Indian Roots: Hanumankind’s Musical Journey
Born in Kerala, India, Cherukat had an unconventional upbringing. He spent most of his childhood traveling between France, Nigeria, Egypt, and Dubai due to his father’s work as a big oil company employee. But his early years in Houston, Texas, had a significant influence on the direction of his music. Cherukat’s sound is forever altered by the hip-hop culture of Houston, which is renowned for its unusual use of “screwed-up” remixes with a cough syrup influence.
Cherukat celebrates the Texas hip-hop legends who shaped his early work, including Project Pat, UGK, Big Bun, and DJ Screw. However, after he returned to India in 2021, his style underwent a significant change. After earning a business degree and working for a while at Goldman Sachs, Cherukat decided to leave a traditional career to focus on rapping full-time, which is what led to his incredible climb to fame.
Bridging Cultures: Indian Identity and Global Influence
Hanumankind’s return to India was more than a geographical move; it was a cultural reconnection. His music reflects a struggle to balance his cosmopolitan background with his Indian roots. Tracks like “Genghis,” shot in the bustling lanes of Bengaluru, confront socio-political issues in India while embracing the rhythm and spirit of local street life.
“Big Dawgs” is a testament to this blend. By focusing on the lesser-known stuntmen of the maut ka kuan, Cherukat chooses to spotlight those who embody genuine risk-taking rather than the typical trappings of wealth and opulence in mainstream rap. “These are the people that are the real risk-takers…Those are the big dogs, for real,” he explained to Complex.
A New Wave in Hip-Hop: Challenges and Criticisms
Despite his success, Hanumankind has faced significant criticism. Some critics argue that his English lyrics and Western-influenced style may not resonate with all Indian listeners. This has sparked debate about the authenticity and impact of his music within India’s diverse linguistic landscape. Additionally, some detractors claim that Cherukat’s work mirrors Western rap too closely, lacking a unique Indian identity.
Abid Haque, a PhD student in New Jersey, points out that while Hanumankind’s music brings South Asian presence to the Western rap scene, it sometimes feels disconnected from Indian reality. “His song casts Indians and South Asians as serious players in the Western rap scene, which is great,” Haque notes. “But he sounds too much like an American rapper lifted out of context into the Indian scene.”
Accepting The Dual Nature: Identity’s Complexity
Cherukat’s dual character is also obvious in his deep thoughts about his songs. He views returning to India as a step in the process of discovering a sense of identity. “I think it really moulded me as someone who never really had a place to call home… and that kind of shaped the way I perceive music, people, and culture,” he stated to Complex. But he doesn’t waver in his broader viewpoint: “I’m not an Indian rapper, but I’m a rapper from India,” he declares, highlighting his position not just in the Indian scene but also in a worldwide one.
This “placelessness” has garnered both praise and criticism. Some international fans struggle with his unconventional style, while Indian audiences debate his authenticity. Yet, this very fluidity is what resonates with many of his fans.
The Attraction of Universality
Hanumankind’s music is universal for admirers such as Delhi-based psychiatrist Arnab Ghosh, who believes it crosses geographical and cultural barriers. “He isn’t trying to cater to an Indian audience, which shows in his music and he is unapologetic about it,” says Ghosh. “His music seems to come from all around the world when I listen to it. I find that kind of universality to be appealing.”
Hanumankind has worked out a unique niche for himself in the music business by combining classic hip-hop components with modern views on society. His path is representative of a larger movement in which artists are breaking limits and reimagining genres while preserving a strong sense of personal integrity.
In The End, Honesty Overcomes
The story of Hanumankind involves overcoming assumptions and establishing multiple identities. Through the fusion of his Indian ancestry and worldwide influences, he has developed a unique hip-hop sound. Cherukat’s path continues to be a potent illustration of how originality and honesty can transform the music industry as he pushes the boundaries of the genre and continues to improve.
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