Hanumankind, born Sooraj Cherukat in 1992 in Malappuram, Kerala, India, is an emerging talent in the Indian hip-hop scene. His music, a fusion of Southern hip-hop and Indian cultural elements, sets him apart on the global stage. With his unique sound and captivating style, Hanumankind is quickly becoming a prominent figure in the music industry.
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Early Life and Education
Sooraj Cherukat’s early years were spent in Houston, Texas, where he was first introduced to the world of Southern hip-hop. Artists like Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat, UGK, and DJ Screw had a profound impact on him, laying the foundation for his future musical endeavors. During his time in Houston, he attended Houston Community College, immersing himself further in the local culture and music scene.
In 2012, Sooraj made the decision to return to India, enrolling at PSG College in Coimbatore to pursue a degree in Business Administration. After completing his studies, he began working at Goldman Sachs in 2014, a job that provided stability but did little to quell his growing passion for music.
The Start of a Musical Journey
Hanumankind’s entry into the music world was marked by his performance at NH7 Weekender, one of India’s premier music festivals. This was soon followed by the release of his debut EP, Kalari, in 2019. The EP’s first single, “Daily Dose,” was a turning point, marking the beginning of his professional music career.
However, it was “Big Dawgs,” a collaboration with Hyderabad-based artist and producer Kalmi, that truly propelled him into the limelight. The track quickly gained popularity, not just in India, but also internationally, establishing Hanumankind as a serious contender in the global hip-hop arena.
Big Dawgs: A Breakthrough Moment
The music video for “Big Dawgs,” directed by Bijoy Shetty, was a visual treat that resonated with audiences. Filmed in the “well of death,” a traditional carnival attraction in Malappuram, the video showcased Hanumankind’s energy and creativity. The unique concept, combined with the high-octane performance, caught the attention of many, including the official Kerala tourism Instagram page, which featured the video.
Artistic Style and Influences
Hanumankind’s music is a reflection of his diverse influences. While his time in Texas introduced him to Southern hip-hop, his artistry is also shaped by iconic rappers like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Logic. This blend of influences results in a sound that is both familiar and fresh, resonating with a wide audience.
Interestingly, Hanumankind is also a fan of System of a Down, a band known for its unique style that blends heavy metal with alternative rock. This eclectic taste in music adds depth to his own work, allowing him to experiment with different sounds and themes.
A Growing Discography
Since his debut, Hanumankind has been steadily building his discography. Some of his notable releases include:
- Kalari (2019)
- Surface Level (2020)
- Various singles such as “Daily Dose,” “S.L.A.B,” “Options,” “Beer and Biryani,” “Genghis,” “Damnson,” “Skyline,” “Lola’s Chant,” “Third Eye Freeverse (Red Bull 64 Bars),” “Go to Sleep,” “Ayyayyo,” and “Big Dawgs.”
Each release showcases his growth as an artist and his ability to blend different musical elements into something uniquely his own.
Achievements and Recognition
Hanumankind’s hard work and talent have not gone unnoticed. His track “Big Dawgs” made an impressive debut at #57 on the Billboard Hot 100, a remarkable achievement for any artist, especially one relatively new to the scene. The song quickly gained traction on streaming platforms, racking up 37 million Spotify streams and becoming a viral sensation on TikTok with over 111 million views.
In addition to these accomplishments, “Big Dawgs” climbed to the 9th position on the Spotify Global Top 50 chart, even surpassing tracks by established artists like Kendrick Lamar and Eminem. This level of success is a testament to Hanumankind’s talent and the widespread appeal of his music.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name “Hanumankind” is a thoughtful blend of cultural and global influences. By combining “Hanuman,” a revered Hindu deity, with the English word “kind,” Sooraj sought to create a stage name that reflects his Indian heritage while also appealing to a global audience. This duality is a recurring theme in his work, where he often blends Indian and Western elements to create something truly unique.
Hanumankind has also spoken about his deep connection to the community in Malappuram, who embraced him and his music. Their support has been a significant source of inspiration for him, and he often pays homage to them through his work.
Conclusion
Hanumankind is more than just a hip-hop artist; he is a cultural bridge, bringing together different worlds through his music. From his early days in Houston to his rise in the Indian music scene, his journey has been one of exploration, growth, and creativity. With his distinct style and the growing recognition of his work, Hanumankind is well on his way to becoming a major force in the global music industry.
