The video, shot entirely within a Well of Death—a traditional Indian fairground stunt arena—has taken the internet by storm.
Published Aug 05, 2024 | 7:39 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 06, 2024 | 10:53 AM
Kerala rapper Hanumankind is transforming global hip-hop with his latest track, 'Big Dawgs'. (Facebook)
Kerala-born rapper Hanumankind, aka Sooraj Cherukat, is making a global impact with his latest release, “Big Dawgs”. The music video, which dropped on 9 July, has gone viral worldwide, thrusting the desi hip-hop scene into the mainstream spotlight.
Since its release, “Big Dawgs” accumulated over 4.1 million views on YouTube and 4.1 million streams on Spotify. Reports suggest that Hanumankind’s follower count has increased by 184%, while his listener base has surged by 2,240% on the digital music platform. The track is, particularly, popular among the 18-34 age group.
A teaser reel for the high-energy track amassed 4.7 million views on Instagram, too.
“Big Dawgs” has resonated across India and internationally, with significant listenership in Germany, the US, Canada, and the UK as well as in Chennai, Bengaluru, Thrissur and Mumbai.
The “Big Dawgs” video, featuring Hanumankind in a car revolving around the wall of death, showcases gritty visuals by Abhinay Pandit and sharp editing, adding to the song’s impact.
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The music blends desi flair with a Western arrangement, combining punk energy with powerful drum beats.
Now based in Bengaluru, Hanumankind spent his early years in Texas before returning to India. He made his debut with “Kalari” and gained further recognition with the collaborative project “Surface Level” with Kalmi.
Tracks like “Genghis”, “Rush Hour”, and “Go To Sleep” highlight the rapper’s talent and versatility in the Indian hip-hop scene.
Directed by Bijoy Shetty and produced by Kalmi of Brown Crew Productions, “Big Dawgs” features intense visuals that amplify the track’s energy. Filmed in Ponnani, the “Mecca of Kerala”—the video’s setting adds authenticity and depth.
Speaking about the viral video, Shetty observed, “If this one had a bigger budget, it might not exist,” emphasising that its distinctive appeal stems partly from its limited resources. He added, “Good art can emerge from any situation and deserves recognition.”
In a Rolling Stone interview, Hanumankind discussed the video’s deeper message: “If you want something, you must take the risk or it won’t happen. Even if you fail, it’s the effort that counts. I can tell my grandchildren that I took the plunge and filmed inside the Well of Death—a traditional Indian fairground stunt arena.
Following the video’s release, “Big Dawgs” gained traction on international hip-hop forums and social media, with Indians proudly declaring Hanumankind as one of their own with comments like “India represent.”
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Some questioned Hanumankind’s authenticity as an Indian artiste capable of producing more than typical Bollywood music.
Addressing criticism, he noted, “There’s a lot of negativity, and people often find reasons to attack you. Hate is normal and shouldn’t deter anyone from pursuing their goals.”
“Big Dawgs” has not only achieved commercial success but also established Hanumankind as a trailblazer in the global music scene. The song’s YouTube logline captures its boldness: “Pushing culture baby, got that product you can’t measure.”
His music resonates with socially conscious listeners, tackling themes from identity politics to personal struggles.
Hanumankind’s parents followed a traditional path to success—insisting on diligent study, college, a good job, and a stable family life. Despite these expectations, his intense passion for music, which he hadn’t initially planned as a career, has turned into something remarkable.
(Edited by S Subhakeerthana)
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