Hanumankind to MC Couper: Meet The Kerala-Born Rappers Taking Social Media By Storm

Meet Hanumankind, the hip-hop sensation rapidly gaining global attention. Born as Sooraj Cherukat in Kerala, India, he is known in the music world as 'Hanumankind.' His rise to fame is as captivating as his music, with his latest track, 'Big Dawgs,' which he wrote, performed, and produced, propelling desi hip-hop into the international spotlight. The song is creating a buzz among social media influencers, music critics, and fans around the world.

'Big Dawgs' was filmed in the coastal district of Ponnani, Kerala, and showcases a raw, South American vibe. The South Indian setting adds a unique desi swagger, blending explosive punk energy with hard-hitting beats. The high-energy drumbeats, gritty visuals, adrenaline-pumping scenes, and polished editing make the video a must-watch on Instagram and beyond.

Known for his influential tracks 'Manavaalan Thug' from Thallumaala and 'Illuminati' from Aavesham, Dabzee has made a notable impact on the Indian music scene. His innovative approach combines traditional mappila elements with contemporary hip-hop, resonating with a diverse audience and connecting different generations. Dabzee’s music celebrates Kerala’s musical heritage while making it accessible to a global audience. As a key player in India’s hip-hop industry, he shapes the genre with his unique blend of styles and creativity.

Vedan is renowned for his sharp lyrics tackling the caste system and oppression. His song 'Voice of the Voiceless' lives up to its name, earning widespread praise for articulating sentiments many had kept hidden. With nearly 600,000 views on YouTube, the track has gained significant popularity, especially among youth beyond Kerala. His latest track, 'Kuthanthram' from the film Manjummel Boys, has also become one of the most-watched Malayalam songs of the year.

Hailing from Kerala, India, Habish Rahman, aka 'Baby Jean,' stands out as a leading Malayalam rapper and lyricist. His energetic and distinctive approach to music, highlighted by his hit song 'Kaayi,' has made a significant impact on contemporary Malayalam rap. His strong presence on social media, particularly Instagram, has garnered him a dedicated fan base and solidified his reputation as a trendsetter and industry influencer.

Neeraj Madhav is a versatile artist from Kerala, known for his work as both an actor and a rapper. His dual career in acting and music showcases his wide-ranging talents. In acting, Neeraj has appeared in various Malayalam films, earning recognition for his dynamic performances and engaging screen presence. As a rapper, he has made a mark in the music scene with his distinctive style and compelling lyrics. Neeraj’s ability to blend his acting skills with his musical talents highlights his creativity and versatility, making him a notable figure in Kerala's entertainment industry.

Febin Joseph, known as Fejo, is a renowned Kerala-born rapper whose Malayalam raps have been popular on YouTube since 2009. With millions of social media followers, Fejo has collaborated with prominent music directors like Sushin Shyam, Jakes Bejoy, Rahul Raj, and Girish Nakod. As a pioneer of Malayalam rap, he is acclaimed for his socio-political themes and commercially successful tracks.

Thirumali aka Vishnu M S has been a prominent figure in Kerala’s rap scene from its early days. Hailing from Kottayam, his journey into hip-hop was driven by a passion for Western legends like Eminem and Kendrick Lamar. His breakthrough came in 2020 with the hit Malayali Da, which significantly boosted his profile.

Known as Shambhu Ajith, MC Couper is a major player in the Malayalam rap scene, thanks to his hit 'Thalatherichavar' from Romancham. His unique lyrical approach and energetic beats resonate strongly with the youth. MC Couper has also broadened his reach through collaborations with notable figures such as Thudweiser and Parimal Shais.