Hanumankind – The name resonates with individuals worldwide. It’s about resilience, risk-taking, and a relentless pursuit of passion. Born Sooraj Cherukat in Kerala, India, and raised in Texas, USA, Hanumankind embodies cross-cultural influences and unique sounds. His rise to fame, especially with the global hit Big Dawgs, showcases the power of blending local roots with international beats. From humble beginnings in the streets (gullies) of Kerala to the international hip-hop scene, Hanumankind’s life reflects the importance of staying true to one’s roots while daring to dream big.
The Formative Years of Hanumankind —From Kerala to Texas
Hanumankind’s early life in Kerala shaped his love for music. Raised in a middle-class family, local sounds influenced his artistic sensibilities. Classical Indian music and regional cinema enriched his future rap persona. A move to Texas during his teenage years introduced him to Southern hip-hop’s heavy beats, basslines, and lyrical prowess. Artists like UGK and OutKast became his new idols, and their stories of struggle and resilience resonated deeply with him. Hanumankind fused these influences with his Indian roots, creating a unique blend of cultural richness and street-style narrative. Despite struggles with identity, music became his refuge, shaping his signature sound.
The Birth of Hanumankind—A Name with Purpose
Upon returning to India, Sooraj transformed into Hanumankind, a name inspired by Hanuman, symbolizing strength and devotion. The “kind” in his name reflects his belief in humanity and empathy. This persona blended power with kindness, becoming more than just a stage name. With renewed purpose, Hanumankind perfected his lyrical flow, beat-making skills, and performance, earning recognition in Bengaluru’s underground scene. His debut EP, Kalari, marked his official entry into the music industry, blending Indian elements with modern hip-hop.
The Early Breakthroughs—Making Noise in the Underground Scene
After Kalari, Hanumankind pushed boundaries with tracks like “Rush Hour” and “Genghis.” These songs gained traction in Bengaluru and across India’s hip-hop scene. His music blended trap beats with desi rhythms, setting him apart. “Rush Hour” became particularly popular, with rapid-fire lyrics capturing urban India’s fast-paced life while weaving in personal and cultural anecdotes. Despite early successes, Hanumankind stayed grounded, recognizing India’s hip-hop scene had room to grow. He embraced this as an opportunity, positioning himself as a leader willing to push boundaries.
Big Dawgs—The Track That Changed Everything
The 2024 release of Big Dawgs marked a pivotal moment in Hanumankind’s career. Produced in collaboration with Kalmi, the track quickly went viral, gaining millions of views globally. Big Dawgs fused heavy, Southern hip-hop beats with Indian elements. Its music video, shot in Kerala’s “Well of Death,” blended tradition with modernity. Hanumankind’s energetic performance and lyrics, such as “Pushing culture baby, got that product you can’t measure,” became an anthem for fans. Big Dawgs was not just a hit for Hanumankind but also for the entire Indian hip-hop community. Its success proved Indian artists could compete internationally.
The Global Impact—Taking Desi Hip-Hop International
With the success of Big Dawgs, Hanumankind became a household name. The track’s success expanded beyond India, with praise across multiple platforms. However, Hanumankind didn’t rest on his laurels. He continued pushing boundaries, experimenting with genres like trap, drill, and EDM. His ability to blend global and local influences positioned him as a leader in Desi hip-hop’s global expansion. This movement saw artists from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka gaining visibility on international platforms, creating a new wave of representation in global music.
Staying True to His Roots—Hanumankind’s Philosophy
Despite his international success, Hanumankind remains deeply connected to his roots. He emphasizes staying true to oneself and making a meaningful impact on the world. His music touches on themes of empowerment, resilience, and social justice, often reflecting his experiences growing up in Kerala and Texas. Beyond music, Hanumankind is involved in charitable initiatives, providing educational resources to underprivileged children. His philosophy of blending strength with empathy is evident in his music and philanthropy, where he uses his platform to inspire change and uplift others.
The Future—What’s Next for Hanumankind?
Hanumankind’s future is bright, with new music and international collaborations on the horizon. He’s also exploring ventures in fashion, film, and activism. He aims to experiment with genres like punk and drill, pushing Desi hip-hop’s boundaries even further. Hanumankind is passionate about mentoring the next generation of artists, focusing on education and creating programs to teach young, underprivileged individuals about music production and entrepreneurship. He continues to expand his global reach, tapping into new international markets in Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Cultural Impact and Legacy—A New Voice for Indian Hip-Hop
Hanumankind’s influence transcends music. His work has sparked conversations about identity, representation, and cultural fusion in the arts. As a voice for marginalized communities, he uses his platform to address social issues and inspire change. Hanumankind has redefined what it means to be an Indian artist in the 21st century, blending tradition with modern global sounds. His success has inspired a new generation of Indian rappers, proving that global success is possible without sacrificing authenticity. Hanumankind’s cultural impact reflects a growing movement toward inclusive representation in global music.
A Journey of Resilience, Passion, and Creativity
Hanumankind’s journey from the gully to global stardom exemplifies resilience, creativity, and staying true to oneself. From Kerala’s streets to global hip-hop stages, his story is one of overcoming adversity, taking risks, and staying authentic. The success of Big Dawgs marked a turning point for Hanumankind and Indian hip-hop, proving that Indian artists could compete globally. Hanumankind’s unwavering commitment to his craft ensures his legacy will inspire others for years to come. His journey is proof that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.
