In the rapidly evolving landscape of Indian hip-hop, few names have emerged as quickly and dramatically as that of Hanumankind. Born Sooraj Cherukat, the 31-year-old rapper has become a sensation not only within India but on the global stage, with his track “Big Dawgs” catapulting him to fame in a manner that has left both fans and critics in awe. The song’s success is emblematic of a larger movement within Indian hip-hop, which has seen an explosion of talent and creativity in recent years. However, Hanumankind’s rise is particularly noteworthy, given the speed at which he has ascended and the unique cultural elements he brings to his music.
The Meteoric Rise of Hanumankind
Hanumankind’s journey to the top of the charts is as compelling as his music. A native of Bangalore, Sooraj Cherukat grew up in a city that has long been known for its vibrant cultural scene, but not necessarily for hip-hop. Yet, it was in this environment that Hanumankind began to hone his craft, drawing on a wide array of influences that ranged from classical Indian music to American rap. His eclectic tastes and desire to push the boundaries of genre quickly set him apart from his peers.
It was the release of “Big Dawgs” that truly launched Hanumankind into the stratosphere. The track, a collaboration with producer Kalmi Reddy and director Bijoy Shetty, quickly went viral, topping charts not just in India but around the world. In a particularly striking achievement, “Big Dawgs” even managed to briefly outpace Kendrick Lamar’s diss track “Not Like Us” on global streaming platforms. For an Indian artist to achieve such a feat is nothing short of extraordinary and speaks to the universal appeal of Hanumankind’s music.
The Power and Energy of “Big Dawgs”
The video for “Big Dawgs” is as much a part of the song’s appeal as the track itself. Set inside a “maut ka kuan,” or “well of death,” the video captures Hanumankind performing with a level of intensity that is hard to match. The “well of death” is a traditional Indian stunt show where drivers race around the inside of a massive wooden barrel, defying gravity as they zoom past each other at breakneck speeds. The setting is a perfect metaphor for the energy and danger that characterizes Hanumankind’s music.
In the video, Hanumankind stomps around the pit, his movements sharp and deliberate, as motorcycles and cars zip past him. The juxtaposition of his commanding presence with the chaotic action around him creates a sense of controlled chaos that mirrors the song’s driving beat and aggressive lyrics. The visual spectacle of the “well of death” serves as a powerful backdrop, underscoring the themes of risk, defiance, and dominance that run through the track.
“Big Dawgs” is not just a song; it is an experience. The pounding bass and rapid-fire delivery of Hanumankind’s verses combine to create a sound that is both familiar and entirely new. While the influence of American hip-hop is undeniable, there is also something distinctly Indian about the track, from the rhythms that echo traditional Indian music to the use of local slang and cultural references. This blending of global and local elements is a hallmark of Hanumankind’s style and a key reason for his broad appeal.
Impression
The success of “Big Dawgs” is significant not just for Hanumankind but for the Indian hip-hop scene as a whole. Hip-hop in India has long been an underground movement, with artists struggling to gain mainstream recognition. However, in recent years, the genre has exploded in popularity, driven by a new generation of artists who are bringing their own experiences and perspectives to the music. Hanumankind is at the forefront of this movement, and his success is a testament to the growing influence of Indian hip-hop on the global stage.
What sets Hanumankind apart is his ability to weave together different cultural threads to create something that feels both fresh and authentic. His music reflects his own journey, from growing up in Bangalore to navigating the challenges of making it in a competitive industry. There is a sense of place and identity in his work that resonates with listeners both in India and abroad.
Moreover, Hanumankind’s rise comes at a time when there is increasing interest in South Asian culture in the global mainstream. From Bollywood films to Indian fashion, there is a growing recognition of the richness and diversity of South Asian art and culture. Hanumankind’s music is part of this broader trend, helping to showcase the creativity and talent that exists within India to a global audience.
Collaboration and Production
The creation of “Big Dawgs” was a collaborative effort that brought together some of the brightest talents in the Indian music industry. Producer Kalmi Reddy played a crucial role in shaping the sound of the track, bringing his expertise in blending traditional and modern elements to the project. His production is both polished and raw, capturing the intensity of Hanumankind’s performance while also allowing the track to feel grounded in its cultural context.
Director Bijoy Shetty, meanwhile, was responsible for the striking visuals that accompany the song. His decision to set the video in a “well of death” was inspired, creating a visual metaphor that perfectly complements the song’s themes. Shetty’s direction is dynamic and energetic, capturing the frenetic energy of the stunt drivers while also keeping the focus on Hanumankind.
The collaboration between Hanumankind, Reddy, and Shetty is a testament to the power of creative partnerships. Each brought their own unique perspective to the project, resulting in a final product that is greater than the sum of its parts. This collaborative spirit is something that is increasingly common in the Indian music scene, where artists, producers, and directors are coming together to push the boundaries of what is possible.
Reception and Legacy
Since its release in July, “Big Dawgs” has garnered over 132 million streams on Spotify and 83 million views on YouTube, making it one of the most popular tracks of the year. The song’s success has brought Hanumankind widespread recognition, both in India and internationally. He has been featured in major publications, including the BBC, which explored his meteoric rise to fame and the cultural impact of his music.
Critics have praised “Big Dawgs” for its boldness and originality, with many noting the track’s ability to capture the essence of both Indian and global hip-hop. Hanumankind’s lyrics have been lauded for their sharpness and wit, while the production has been celebrated for its innovative approach to blending different musical traditions.
Perhaps most importantly, “Big Dawgs” has resonated with listeners. The song’s themes of power, defiance, and self-confidence have struck a chord with fans, who have embraced Hanumankind as a new voice in the hip-hop world. The track has become an anthem for a generation of young Indians who see in Hanumankind a reflection of their own aspirations and struggles.
Looking Ahead
As Hanumankind continues to build on the success of “Big Dawgs,” there is no doubt that he is poised to become one of the leading figures in the global hip-hop scene. His ability to fuse different cultural influences into his music gives him a unique voice that stands out in an increasingly crowded field. Moreover, his willingness to take risks, both musically and visually, suggests that he is not content to rest on his laurels.
Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how Hanumankind evolves as an artist. With the global spotlight now firmly on him, he has the opportunity to push the boundaries of what Indian hip-hop can be, both in terms of sound and reach. There is also the potential for more collaborations with international artists, which could further elevate his profile and introduce his music to new audiences.
At the same time, Hanumankind remains deeply connected to his roots, and it is likely that his future work will continue to reflect his cultural heritage. This balance between staying true to his origins and embracing new influences is a key part of what makes Hanumankind such a compelling artist.
The rise of Hanumankind is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and the power of music to transcend borders. In just a short time, he has gone from being a relatively unknown artist to a global sensation, thanks in large part to the success of “Big Dawgs.” His music, which blends the best of Indian and global hip-hop, has struck a chord with listeners around the world, and his energetic performances and bold visuals have set him apart as a true innovator.
As Indian hip-hop continues to grow and evolve, artists like Hanumankind will play a crucial role in shaping its future. His success is not just a personal achievement but a sign of the potential that exists within the Indian music scene. For fans and observers alike, Hanumankind’s journey is a thrilling ride, one that promises to take Indian hip-hop to new heights. And as he continues to make waves on the global stage, it is clear that this is only the beginning for Hanumankind.
