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Origins of the Movement
In the early days, Mumbai's Matunga tea shop was a hotspot for young rappers like Naezy (Naved Shaikh) and his crew, The Schizophrenics, who would cipher—freestyle rap battles—on the streets. Naezy's "Aafat" was a breakthrough hit, recorded with his crew on an iPad and circulated through word of mouth, marking the beginning of a wave of independent, DIY music. Divine, another key figure, also began with homemade videos, which soon gained traction online. Artists like Prabh Deep, Sikander Kahlon, and MC Kash from Kashmir have made hip-hop their own, while producers like Sez (Sajeel Kapoor) from Delhi have played a pivotal role in crafting the beats for artists like Divine and Naezy. Collaboration and the spread of music via the internet have turned underground hip-hop into a cultural force.

Vernacular Influence
What sets Indian hip-hop apart from its American counterpart is the use of vernacular languages like Hindi, Marathi, Punjabi, and Tamil, making the music accessible to a wider, more localized audience. This use of regional slang and themes of urban struggle, corruption, and inequality resonate deeply with listeners, particularly the youth in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru. Divine’s hit track "Mere Gully Mein" epitomizes this blend of local pride and social commentary, while artists like Naezy and Prabh tackle issues such as police brutality, discrimination, and the challenges faced by working-class neighborhoods.

The Rise of Female Rappers
While male rappers dominate the scene, female artists like MC Kaur and Dee MC are carving their own space, tackling gender inequality and the challenges of navigating hip-hop in a male-dominated industry. MC Kaur's album Hip-Hop Bahu and Dee MC's tracks like "Deeva" showcase the unique struggles and perspectives of women in India, with lyrics addressing everything from marriage expectations to empowerment.

Challenges and Growth
The underground hip-hop scene in India is growing rapidly, but it still faces challenges. Venues, for instance, often struggle to accommodate the younger, cash-strapped audiences who flock to these gigs. But as hip-hop continues to reach more mainstream platforms, artists like Divine and Naezy are gaining recognition both in India and abroad, with performances in London and music videos making their way onto TV. Despite limited media exposure, the community remains tightly knit, with rappers often collaborating with dancers, beatboxers, and graffiti artists. It's not just about music—it's a lifestyle and a movement for social change. The DIY ethos is alive, with rappers creating their own platforms, such as Divine's label and Ace's Worth Itt startup, which aims to nurture young talent.

Cultural Revolution
Indian hip-hop is more than just a musical genre; it's a cultural revolution. It's about reclaiming space for local voices and creating a platform for socio-political change. The movement's authenticity is tied to its focus on real-life experiences, with artists using their lyrics to speak to the realities of their communities. While commercial rap focuses on materialism, underground hip-hop emphasizes honesty, local struggles, and the desire for change. The music often reflects a deep sense of "Indianness" by incorporating everyday experiences, like Divine’s reference to "dal" (lentils) in his song Jungli Sher, which connects with listeners from all walks of life.

The Future
As the scene continues to grow, the ambitions of the artists stretch beyond just underground success. Rappers like Naezy and Divine dream of taking their music to the mainstream, influencing social change, and connecting with a global audience. The future of Indian hip-hop seems promising, with more artists gaining visibility, and the culture expanding beyond the confines of the streets into a global phenomenon. In short, Indian hip-hop is not just about music—it's about authenticity, community, and revolution, offering a voice to those who have long been silenced.

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The Rise of Kr$na
Kr$na, one of the most prominent figures in India's underground rap scene, has been making waves in recent years with his powerful lyrics and unique blend of styles. Known for his sharp lyricism and ability to combine English with Hindi and Punjabi, Kr$na's music spans topics from personal struggle to larger societal issues. His rise to fame has been fueled by his collaborations with major Indian hip-hop artists, as well as his consistent presence in the underground rap scene.

Navigating Socio-Political Themes
While many Indian rappers are increasingly using their platforms to address socio-political concerns — from inequality and corruption to violence and discrimination — Kr$na acknowledges the importance of such themes but also offers a critique. He notes that while music with heavy messages is powerful, it can also be limiting. He expresses that, "Music is an art form. When it becomes too message-driven, it risks becoming preachy and alienating listeners who aren't ready to hear a sermon."

The Need for Nuance
Kr$na’s approach is rooted in nuance. He feels that rap should be dynamic, expressing a wide range of emotions, including joy, success, and celebration, alongside the more serious themes. "Not everything should be political," he says. "There’s room for fun, for freedom, for lightness in the music too. Otherwise, the genre becomes a tool for protest only, and that can create an artificial narrative." This outlook is a response to the often monolithic portrayal of hip-hop as solely a form of resistance.

Personal Reflections on the Scene
Kr$na also reflects on the evolution of the Indian hip-hop scene, from its underground roots to the mainstream success it enjoys today. He feels that while the commercial success of artists like Divine and Naezy has brought more attention to the genre, it has also created a division between "authentic" and "commercial" hip-hop. Kr$na himself straddles both worlds, known for his raw, street-smart rhymes as well as his successful collaborations with mainstream artists.

Moving Beyond “Message Music”
Kr$na’s latest projects focus on balancing his personal narrative with broader socio-political themes, without making the message the primary focus. For him, the most important aspect of rap is not just delivering a political message but creating music that’s relatable, engaging, and honest.

The Future of Indian Hip-Hop
Looking ahead, Kr$na remains optimistic about the future of Indian hip-hop. He believes the genre will continue to grow and diversify, with more artists finding their own voices. The success of hip-hop in India, he feels, lies in its ability to adapt to local cultures, using regional languages and addressing specific issues relevant to Indian audiences while still staying true to global hip-hop traditions.

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Hanumankind’s Meteoric Rise
Hanumankind, a 31-year-old rapper from India, has become one of the standout names in the country’s rapidly growing hip-hop scene. Born Sooraj Cherukat in Kerala, Hanumankind has transcended borders, both in his personal life and his music. After spending his childhood in several countries — including France, Nigeria, Egypt, and Dubai — Hanumankind’s most formative years were spent in Houston, Texas, a city with a rich and distinctive hip-hop culture. It was here, in Houston’s iconic “screwed-up” scene, that Hanumankind’s musical journey began.

A Fusion of Cultures
Musically, Hanumankind blends the street life tales typical of hip-hop with an underlying sense of cosmopolitan identity. His upbringing across multiple countries plays a significant role in shaping his sound, which is infused with elements from both his Indian heritage and Western influences.

An Identity Crisis and the Search for Belonging
Despite his success, Hanumankind has faced criticism for his music’s perceived lack of cultural specificity. Critics argue that while his music video for Big Dawgs features distinctly Indian visuals, the lyrics and musical style feel disconnected from the realities of Indian street life. “He sounds too much like an American rapper lifted out of context into the Indian scene,” says Abid Haque, a PhD student from New Jersey.

The Duality of Hanumankind’s Music
Despite the criticism, Hanumankind's ability to defy expectations has been part of his appeal. His music is a fusion of global influences — blending the bravado and aggression of American hip-hop with a distinctly South Indian perspective. Tracks like Genghis, which was shot in the lanes of Bengaluru, reveal his willingness to delve into local Indian issues, such as political strife, while maintaining a distinctly international sound.

The Global Appeal of Hanumankind
As Hanumankind’s music continues to gain traction on global charts, his success exemplifies the shifting boundaries of hip-hop as a genre. Once confined to specific cultural or national boundaries, hip-hop is now a global phenomenon, and Hanumankind is at the forefront of this transformation in India.

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Behind the Scenes: The Man and His Music

• The Persona and the Lifestyle: This section delves into Badshah's persona — a combination of swagger, materialism, and escapism, often embodied in flashy music videos filled with luxury cars, scantily clad dancers, and an exaggerated portrayal of wealth. The music matches this lifestyle, blending Punjabi machismo with a global hip-hop aesthetic.
• His Humble Beginnings: Born Aditya Prateek Singh Sisodia, Badshah grew up in a middle-class Punjabi family. His childhood wasn't marked by popularity or success with girls, and he was often the class clown. Despite this, he was academically gifted and even had entrepreneurial ventures at a young age, including a comic-book lending business and sneaker designs.

The Shift from Engineering to Music

• The Battle with Family Expectations: Initially pushed toward an engineering career by his father, Badshah was not happy with this direction. His real passion lay in rap, which he discovered in his college years through influences like Tupac, Eminem, and UK-based Asian artists like Jay Sean and Panjabi MC.
• Mafia Mundeer and Collaboration with Honey Singh: Badshah’s big break came when he joined the rap crew Mafia Mundeer, alongside Yo Yo Honey Singh, Raftaar, and others. This group was crucial in blending Punjabi music with rap, creating a new, club-friendly sound. However, tensions within the group, particularly with Honey Singh’s control, eventually led to Badshah and Raftaar leaving to pursue solo careers.

Rise in Bollywood and Criticism

• From Struggling Artist to Bollywood Hitmaker: After his departure from Mafia Mundeer, Badshah’s big break came with "Saturday Saturday". From there, his career soared, earning him recognition as one of Bollywood’s go-to hitmakers.
• Public Backlash: Despite his commercial success, Badshah faced criticism from parts of the underground rap scene for making music that was seen as superficial or even damaging to the art form. While some underground artists like Brodha V dissed his music for being shallow, Badshah remained unapologetic, defending his success by noting the millions of fans he had attracted and his impressive material wealth.

Balancing Fame, Family, and Mental Health

• Personal Struggles: The pressures of fame took a toll on Badshah, who was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. His openness about mental health in an industry that often stigmatizes such issues is a rare moment of vulnerability in the article.
• New Family Life: On a personal note, the birth of his daughter marked a turning point in his life, softening his tough exterior. He spoke emotionally about his new role as a father, expressing a deeper desire for family life and health.

Looking Ahead: New Projects and Expanding Horizons

• The Album and Future Aspirations: Badshah is working on a solo debut album "Original. Never. Ends" (O.N.E), which he hopes will break away from his established image in Bollywood. He has expressed a desire to explore more personal and experimental aspects of his music. Additionally, he is working on launching his own sneaker line and has ventured into film production with the co-production of a Punjabi movie, Ardaas.
• Business Empire: The article touches on his larger ambitions, including building his own music empire. As he shifts focus to a healthier lifestyle and balancing work with family, Badshah is also thinking long-term about his career beyond music, with plans for fashion lines and more production ventures.

The Crowds and the Chaos

• Fandom and the Price of Fame: The article concludes with a portrayal of Badshah’s massive fan base. After his performance, Badshah faces a frenzy of fans, underscoring the chaos that comes with being a superstar. This moment captures the overwhelming nature of fame and its impact on his day-to-day life.

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Moosewala’s Legacy and Posthumous Recognition

Sidhu Moosewala, the late Punjabi rapper-singer who tragically passed away in 2022, achieved this milestone posthumously. His inclusion in the Top 5 global hip-hop artists is a powerful testament to his exceptional talent and the loyal fanbase he amassed throughout his career. Despite his untimely departure, Moosewala's impact on the global music scene endures.

Badshah’s Continued Dominance

Joining Moosewala in the top 10 is fellow Punjabi rapper and music mogul Badshah, whose consistent dominance in both the Indian and global music scenes has earned him a spot among the biggest names in hip-hop. His success reflects the growing global recognition of Indian hip-hop, an art form that continues to gain traction across borders.

Other Notable Achievements in Indian Hip-Hop

In addition to Sidhu Moosewala and Badshah, other prominent Punjabi artists are making waves internationally. Diljit Dosanjh and Karan Aujla have also earned spots in the Top 50 Most Followed Hip-Hop Artists, with Diljit securing the 15th position and Karan Aujla at 38th. These accomplishments underscore the increasing global recognition of Indian artists and the genre’s rising international appeal.

Badshah's Continued Success on the Charts

Meanwhile, Badshah is further cementing his place in the industry with his soulful hit “Soulmate”, a track from his third studio album *Ek Tha Raja*. The song has surpassed 100 million streams on Spotify, a remarkable achievement. The collaboration with singer Arijit Singh has resonated with listeners globally, thanks to its heartfelt lyrics and captivating melody.

A Historic Moment for Indian Hip-Hop

Badshah expressed his pride in the achievement, saying, “It’s surreal to think that just a few years ago, Indian hip-hop was still an underground movement. Today, we're sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in the industry. It’s a bittersweet feeling to celebrate this achievement without Sidhu paaji by our side. His loss is deeply felt by the entire hip-hop community. His legacy will forever inspire us to push the boundaries and represent our culture on a global scale. We'll continue to carry his torch and make him proud.”

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History of Hip-Hop in India

Origins and Early Influence
Hip-hop first emerged in India in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as the global influence of artists like Vanilla Ice, MC Hammer, and Run DMC reached Indian shores. The genre was initially met with curiosity, as urban youth began experimenting with breakdancing, graffiti, and DJing. Chennai, in particular, became one of the earliest cities where hip-hop culture took root, particularly with breakdancing.

Baba Sehgal and the Birth of Hindi Rap
A pivotal moment in Indian hip-hop came in the 1990s with Baba Sehgal, often hailed as the first Indian rapper. His album, Thanda Thanda Pani (1992), which blended traditional Indian music with Western hip-hop beats, was a massive success. Baba Sehgal’s innovative approach helped introduce rap to a broader Indian audience, sparking the growth of the genre in the years to come.

Regional Hip-Hop Scenes
India's hip-hop scene is as diverse as the country itself, with different regions developing distinct styles:

• Mumbai and Gully Rap: The Gully Rap movement, originating from Mumbai’s slums, reflects the struggles of urban youth. Artists like Divine and Naezy have become icons of this scene, with their raw, gritty lyrics that speak to life in the city’s underbelly. Their success was further amplified by the 2019 Bollywood film Gully Boy, which was inspired by their lives.
• Delhi and Multilingual Rappers: Delhi's hip-hop scene is a melting pot of languages, with rappers like Prabh Deep, Rebel 7, and Sez On The Beat rapping in Hindi, Punjabi, and Haryanvi. The multilingual approach helps connect with a broad range of audiences, expressing diverse perspectives on life, class struggles, and personal experiences.
• Bangalore and Underground Hip-Hop: Known for its experimental approach, Bangalore's underground scene is home to independent artists who push boundaries with alternative sounds and socially conscious lyrics. Artists like Swadesi and The Quixotic blend traditional Indian elements with modern hip-hop styles, exploring issues from a unique, local perspective.
• Chennai and Tamil Hip-Hop: Chennai's rap scene is characterized by Tamil-language lyrics that draw from local history and culture. Artists in this region, like Arivu, combine regional pride with hip-hop rhythms, creating a distinctly Tamil version of the genre.
• Kerala and Malayalam Hip-Hop: Kerala’s Malayalam rap scene is gaining momentum, with artists like Bunkface and Rap Asia incorporating local cultural references and issues into their music. Kerala’s hip-hop is noted for its unique fusion of traditional beats with contemporary urban sounds.
• Khasi Bloodz and Khasi Hip-Hop: In the Northeast, Khasi Bloodz from Meghalaya represents the Khasi tribe through rap. Their focus on social issues and Khasi identity has made them prominent in the growing Northeast Indian hip-hop movement.
• Punjab and Punjabi Hip-Hop: Punjab has been instrumental in the rise of Desi hip-hop, with artists like Badshah, Yo Yo Honey Singh, and Raftaar blending traditional Punjabi music with hip-hop. Punjabi hip-hop has found a massive global audience, creating a bridge between Punjabi culture and mainstream music.

Influential Indian Rappers
Several artists have become pioneers in the Indian hip-hop scene, shaping its direction and sound:

• Divine: Known for tracks like “Mere Gully Mein,” Divine’s music is deeply rooted in the struggles of Mumbai’s slums. He is a central figure in the Gully Rap movement and was portrayed in Gully Boy.
• Naezy: Alongside Divine, Naezy is one of the leading voices of Gully Rap. His tracks like “Aafat” tackle life in Mumbai’s streets and the harsh realities of urban poverty.
• Raftaar: A versatile rapper from Kerala, Raftaar is known for his high-energy tracks and fusion of Hindi and Punjabi lyrics. His collaborations with Bollywood have helped popularize his music beyond the underground scene.
• Emiway Bantai: Famous for his energetic performances and fast-paced flow, Emiway Bantai is one of the most successful independent rappers in India. His viral hits like “Bantai” have helped him establish a massive fanbase.
• KR$NA: Known for his intricate lyrics and wordplay, KR$NA (formerly Young Prozpekt) is regarded as one of the most technically skilled rappers in India. His tracks like “Vyanjan” and “No Losses” have earned him widespread recognition.
• Brodha V: Brodha V mixes classical Indian music with hip-hop, creating a unique sound. His tracks like “Aathma Raama” showcase his talent for blending storytelling with music.

Hip-Hop Culture in India
Indian hip-hop is not just a music genre but a cultural movement that includes rap battles, graffiti, fashion, and dance:

• Rap Battles and Diss Tracks: Indian rap battles and diss tracks offer artists a platform to display their lyrical skills. Competitions like Rap Wars have been crucial in shaping the rivalry and camaraderie within the scene.
• Graffiti and Street Art: Street art and graffiti are integral parts of the Indian hip-hop scene. Cities like Delhi and Mumbai are home to murals and graffiti that reflect social and political messages, using the urban environment as a canvas for self-expression.
• Fashion and Style: Hip-hop fashion in India blends traditional Indian elements with global streetwear. The distinctive style—featuring oversized clothing, hoodies, and sneakers—has become synonymous with the Indian hip-hop identity, particularly in urban youth culture.

Hip-Hop and Bollywood
Bollywood has played an instrumental role in introducing Indian hip-hop to mainstream audiences:

• Gully Boy and Mainstream Recognition: The 2019 film Gully Boy was a breakthrough moment for Indian hip-hop. The movie, based on the lives of Divine and Naezy, brought the Gully Rap movement to a larger audience. Songs like “Azadi” became anthems for the youth, signaling a new era for hip-hop in India.
• Collaborations and Soundtracks: Bollywood filmmakers have increasingly turned to hip-hop for soundtracks, with artists like Badshah and Raftaar blending hip-hop with traditional music in blockbuster films.

Social Issues and Indian Hip-Hop
Indian hip-hop has become a powerful vehicle for social commentary, tackling issues like political unrest, caste discrimination, poverty, and identity. The genre has a long tradition of protest music, with rappers using their platforms to address the country's most pressing social problems.

• Political Themes and Protest Music: Indian hip-hop artists have been vocal about political issues, such as the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Songs like “Kaisa Mera Desh” reflect the genre's capacity for social activism and political dissent.
• Caste and Racism: Hip-hop has provided marginalized communities, especially the Dalits, a voice to speak out against the caste system and racism. Rappers like Baba Sehgal and Prabh Deep have used their music to highlight the struggles faced by these communities.

The Future of Hip-Hop in India
The future of Indian hip-hop looks bright, with emerging artists experimenting with new sounds and styles. Artists like Shashwat Mishra (The Quixotic) and MC Prabh Deep are pushing boundaries with experimental, emotionally charged music. There is also an increasing trend of global collaborations, signaling India's rising presence on the international stage.

With initiatives like Mass Appeal India, a joint venture between Universal Music and Nas’ label, the global potential of Indian hip-hop is becoming more evident. These collaborations, along with international tours and festivals, are likely to propel Indian hip-hop artists to even greater heights.

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