Watch: Hanumankind Stuns At Coachella 2025 With Chenda Melam

April 13, 2025: Indian rapper Hanumankind (real name Sooraj Cherukat) made waves at Coachella 2025 with a powerful performance that not only electrified the crowd but also proudly spotlighted Indian culture. Taking the stage in California, the Kerala-born rapper made a grand entrance accompanied by Chenda Melam, a traditional percussion ensemble from his home state — a moment that quickly went viral across social media platforms.

Dressed in traditional white mundu attire, the percussionists brought a slice of Kerala to one of the world’s biggest music festivals, marking a historic moment for Indian representation in global music events. Hanumankind’s bold fusion of rap and traditional Indian elements struck a chord with audiences both at Coachella and online, earning applause for his authenticity and cultural pride.

The 33-year-old rapper has been making international headlines since the release of his track “Big Dawgs” in July 2024. Featuring rapper Kalmi, the song debuted at #57 on the Billboard Hot 100, a rare feat for an Indian hip-hop artist.

His growing acclaim also caught the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who recently lauded his song “Run It Up” during the 120th edition of Mann Ki Baat. PM Modi praised Hanumankind’s efforts in promoting traditional Indian martial arts like Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Thang-Ta through music and visuals, highlighting the track’s cultural significance:
“I congratulate Hanumankind that due to his efforts, people of the world are getting to know about our traditional martial arts.”

The music video for Run It Up blends folk traditions, martial arts, and modern beats, creating a celebration of India’s rich cultural tapestry. With his Coachella debut, Hanumankind has not only taken Indian hip-hop to a global stage but also made a strong statement about cultural roots, representation, and artistic pride.