Hanumankind: the rising Malayali rap star behind the viral hit "Big Dawgs"

Social media feeds have lately been buzzing with the electrifying beats of "Big Dawgs," the viral sensation by Hanumankind.

This track has dominated both the airwaves and the internet, with its captivating rhythm and unforgettable opening instantly grabbing listeners' attention.

With an impressive 70.2 million streams on Spotify and over 50 million views on YouTube, "Big Dawgs" has left many wondering: Who exactly is Hanumankind?

Sooraj Cherukat is the creative force behind the rap persona Hanumankind. Originating from Kerala, India, his life journey has been anything but typical. After his family relocated to Houston, Texas, Cherukat spent his formative years in the United States, raised by parents who encouraged a traditional path of success - education, a stable job, and a settled life. It seemed he was following this path until 2012 when he returned to India to complete his degree.

Upon his return, Cherukat found himself working a secure corporate job at Goldman Sachs by day. However, by night, he transformed into Hanumankind, an aspiring rapper with a deep passion for music. What began as a side hustle quickly became his primary focus, especially after signing with Def Jam India.

The release of "Big Dawgs" catapulted him to international stardom, making his dream a reality.

The music video for "Big Dawgs" is a visual spectacle, set in the coastal town of Ponnani, Kerala. It features the daring and thrilling "marana kinar" (Well of Death), where cars and motorcycles race along vertical walls in a breathtaking display of skill and courage.

Paired with Hanumankind’s sharp lyrics and infectious beats, the video is an exhilarating experience, explaining the track's instant popularity.

Influenced by legendary artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Logic, Hanumankind’s music is a powerful blend of introspection and intensity. His vision has come to life as "Big Dawgs" climbed to the seventh spot on Spotify’s Global Top 50, surpassing tracks by industry giants like Kendrick Lamar and Eminem.

This achievement marks a monumental moment for the Indian rapper, who has now outshined two of the most iconic names in rap.

Following its success on Spotify, "Big Dawgs" reached another major milestone by breaking into the Billboard Global 200 singles chart, securing the ninth position. This feat further solidifies the track's status as a global phenomenon.

For those captivated by "Big Dawgs," there’s much more to explore in Hanumankind’s expanding discography. Tracks like "The Last Dance," "DAMNSON," "Ayyayyo," and "No Hook" offer a glimpse into the bold, genre-defying music that’s propelling this artist to new heights.

Hanumankind creates music that fuses powerful, introspective lyrics with high-energy beats, drawing from hip-hop, rap, and trap influences.

One of his standout projects is the EP Kalari, which showcases his distinct style and lyrical skill. Like much of his music, Kalari explores themes of identity, culture, and personal experiences, all set against energetic beats and sharp rhymes. This EP played a crucial role in establishing his presence in the Indian hip-hop scene and paved the way for his rising popularity.