In the ever-evolving landscape of global hip-hop, there is rarely a story as interesting as that of Indian rapper Suraj Cherukat, popularly known as Hanumankind. From his energetic debut to his recent success with the track “Big Dogs”, Hanumankind’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and identity.In a very short time, Hanumankind has captured the attention of music lovers around the world. His track “Big Dogs” not only topped the global charts, but also briefly outsold Kendrick Lamar’s much-loved diss track “Not Like Us”. The BBC has discussed Hanumankind’s remarkable rise in depth, explaining how the rapper’s unique blend of influences and personal experiences has shaped his career. The music video for “Big Dogs” is a spectacle of energy and courage.
Hanumankind, 31, is seen performing inside the Maut Ka Kuan – a traditional “well of death” where motorcyclists perform daring stunts within a giant wooden barrel. As the vehicles spin around him, Hanumankind’s dynamic presence and impressive performance draws the audience into his world. Since its release in July, the track has racked up over 132 million streams on Spotify and 83 million views on YouTube, catapulting him into the global spotlight. Born in Kerala, India, Hanumankind’s upbringing was not at all ordinary. His father’s work at a major oil company took the family around the world, from France to Nigeria, Egypt and Dubai. However, it was Houston, Texas, where Cherukat’s musical journey began to take shape. Houston’s hip-hop scene, known for its distinctive style influenced by “Screwed and Chopped” remixes – thanks to pioneers like DJ Screw – left an indelible mark on him. Despite these influences, Hanumankind’s return to India in 2021 marked a significant shift. After dropping out of college and working in finance, Cherukat pursued music full-time. Time spent in Houston had given him a deep appreciation for the local hip-hop scene, but returning to India gave him a chance to explore and reconnect with his Indian heritage. His music reflects this duality. On the one hand,
his tracks follow a traditional hip-hop narrative, with vivid storytelling and raw emotions. On the other hand, Hanumankind incorporates elements of his Indian background into his work, blending traditional sounds with modern beats. His songs, such as “Big Dogs,” often incorporate elements of South Indian street culture, breaking away from typical rap themes of luxury and excess. Hanumankind’s music resonates with a wide audience, but doesn’t shy away from controversy. Some critics argue that his English-language lyrics and Western-influenced style may limit his appeal among non-English-speaking Indian listeners. There is also criticism that his music, despite being full of Indian elements, sometimes seems disconnected from the reality of Indian street life. Abid Haque, a PhD student in New Jersey, commented, “His music video for ‘Big Dogs’ has Indian aesthetics,
but the lyrics and style often seem mismatched in the Indian context.” This criticism highlights the tension between Hanumankind’s attempt to bridge cultures and his struggle to fully engage with both. Cherukat himself acknowledges this duality. He sees his return to India as a way to explore his identity and connect with his roots, but he also insists on a broader perspective. He states, “I am not an Indian rapper; I am India’s rapper.” This self-definition allows him to navigate the complexities of his identity while also adopting a universal approach to his music. The road to fame has not been without obstacles. Hanumankind has faced racism and skepticism online from both international and Indian audiences. Some critics question his authenticity, while others believe his style is too American. Despite these challenges, Hanumankind remains committed to his unique vision. “I think my music reflects my experiences and influences, and that’s what makes it unique,” he says. “I don’t want to fit into any one mold; I want to create something new and meaningful.” For Hanumankind’s fans, his music represents a refreshing change from conventional expectations. Delhi-based psychiatrist Arnab Ghosh reflects on his acclaim: “Hanumankind’s music feels global, not limited by geographic or cultural boundaries. This universality is what appeals to me.” The success of “Big Dogs” and Hanumankind’s growing influence highlight a significant shift in the Indian music scene. His ability to blend traditional Indian elements with contemporary hip-hop has impressed diverse audiences in India and abroad. The public reception of his work underscores a growing appetite for artists who can bridge cultural divides and offer new perspectives.