Hanumankind, whose real name is Sooraj Cherukat, brings an intense energy to his Big Dawgs music video, filmed inside a “well of death,” a breathtaking arena where motorcyclists perform stunts within a cylindrical wooden structure. As the action unfolds around him, Cherukat commands attention in the center of the chaotic scene.
The song, produced by Kalmi Reddy and directed by Bijoy Shetty, has garnered significant attention, with over 132 million streams on Spotify and 83 million views on YouTube since its release in July. This success has thrust Cherukat into the global spotlight.
While his music fits within the framework of hip-hop, often narrating gritty tales through sharp, explicit lyrics, it is also a reflection of his diverse background. Born in Kerala, India, Cherukat spent much of his childhood moving around the world due to his father’s job. He lived in countries such as France, Nigeria, Egypt, and Dubai before eventually settling in Houston, Texas, where his passion for music took root.
Cherukat’s style has attracted a range of reactions. Some listeners from outside India are surprised by his background, while some Indian listeners critique him for not fitting the conventional mold of an Indian artist. Despite this, many fans appreciate how his music transcends borders, appealing to a global audience.
For his supporters, Hanumankind represents a fresh voice in hip-hop, merging classic elements with a modern twist. Arnab Ghosh, a psychiatrist from Delhi, notes that Cherukat’s music feels universal rather than catering to a specific audience, which is what makes it so compelling.
Cherukat has spoken about his commitment to staying true to his roots while adapting to his surroundings and influences without sacrificing authenticity.
Houston’s unique hip-hop culture, characterized by its signature “screwed-up” sound—where tracks are slowed down to mimic the effects of cough syrup—has had a significant influence on Cherukat’s work. He credits artists like DJ Screw, UGK, and Project Pat as key inspirations during his formative years.
After dropping out of college and returning to India in 2021, Cherukat’s music continued to evolve. Initially pursuing a business degree and working at companies like Goldman Sachs, he ultimately chose to follow his passion for rap full-time. His music now reflects his life experiences, combining international influences with an exploration of his Indian heritage. His lyrics often delve into the challenges of life in southern India, blending powerful vocal delivery with rhythmic beats and occasional Indian instruments like the tabla.
In Big Dawgs, Cherukat shifts away from the typical themes of mainstream rap, such as luxury and excess, instead shining a light on small-town stunt performers from modest backgrounds. He describes these individuals as “the real big dogs” for their courage and the risks they take in their performances.
However, Cherukat’s rise to fame has not been without its challenges. Some critics argue that his decision to rap in English limits his appeal among Indian audiences, particularly those who favor vernacular languages. Others feel that his style is heavily influenced by Western hip-hop, questioning the depth of his connection to Indian culture.
Although his work brings visibility to South Asians within the global hip-hop scene, some listeners believe that his music, while visually rooted in India, sometimes feels disconnected from the local reality. This duality reflects Cherukat’s own journey of balancing his multicultural background with his identity as an artist.
Ultimately, Cherukat embraces this complexity. While returning to India has helped him reconnect with his heritage, he views himself as part of a broader, global movement. As he has mentioned in interviews, he doesn’t see himself merely as an “Indian rapper” but rather as a rapper who happens to come from India, signaling his desire to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries in his music.