Narendra Modi Praises Hanumankind for Showcasing Indian Culture
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commended rapper Hanumankind for his latest song, “Run It Up,” which brings India’s traditional martial arts to the global stage. In the 120th episode of his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi acknowledged Hanumankind’s contribution in highlighting cultural practices such as Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Thang-Ta.
PM Modi’s Remarks on ‘Run It Up’
PM Modi emphasized the growing presence of indigenous sports in popular culture. While addressing the nation, he stated:
“Our indigenous games are now becoming a part of popular culture. You all must be knowing the famous rapper Hanumankind. His new song ‘Run It Up’ is becoming quite famous these days. Our traditional martial arts like Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Thang-Ta have been included in it. I congratulate Hanumankind that due to his efforts, people of the world are getting to know about our traditional martial arts.”
These words highlight the significance of modern artists incorporating cultural elements into contemporary art forms, ensuring that India’s traditions reach international audiences.
Hanumankind’s Musical Journey and the Impact of ‘Run It Up’
Hanumankind, whose real name is Sooraj Cherukat, is a Kerala-born rapper who gained widespread recognition in 2024 with his viral hit Big Dawgs. His latest release, Run It Up, dropped on March 7, 2025, and has been making waves for its seamless fusion of hip-hop and traditional Indian sounds.
Produced by his longtime collaborator Kalmi, Run It Up prominently features the chenda, a traditional Keralan drum, and pulsating beats that intensify the song’s energy. The track’s lyrics revolve around themes of legacy, resilience, and motivation, positioning it as an anthem of perseverance.
Hanumankind’s rise in the Indian hip-hop scene has been meteoric. With a background in English literature and a passion for storytelling, he blends lyrical depth with modern rap influences. His ability to seamlessly incorporate Indian cultural elements into contemporary music has set him apart as a unique voice in the industry.
The Cultural Essence of ‘Run It Up’
The music video, directed by Bijoy Shetty, serves as a tribute to India’s rich heritage. It showcases a variety of martial arts and dance forms from different regions, including:
- Kalaripayattu – One of the world’s oldest martial arts, originating in Kerala, known for its agility, strikes, and weapon combat.
- Gatka – A traditional Sikh martial art from Punjab, practiced with wooden sticks and swords.
- Thang-Ta – A sword-based martial art from Manipur, emphasizing acrobatics and precision.
- Mardani Khel – A weapon-based combat form from Maharashtra, primarily using swords and sticks.
- Theyyam – A ritualistic dance form from Kerala, known for its elaborate costumes and symbolic performances.
The video presents Hanumankind moving through different cultural performances, visually narrating the connection between traditional art forms and contemporary self-expression.
Additionally, the song’s beats are heavily inspired by Indian folk rhythms, creating an auditory experience that resonates with global audiences while staying rooted in Indian traditions. Hanumankind’s deliberate choice to highlight lesser-known martial arts in his music video adds an educational dimension to his work, making it not just entertainment but also cultural preservation.
Fan Reactions and Global Reception
The fusion of Indian martial arts with rap has resonated strongly with audiences worldwide. Many fans have taken to social media, praising Hanumankind’s role in popularizing indigenous art forms. One fan even remarked, “He is the biggest advocate for Make in India.”
The track has also caught the attention of music critics, with many noting that Hanumankind’s approach successfully blends traditional elements with modern beats, creating a sound that is both fresh and culturally rooted.
Beyond India, international hip-hop enthusiasts have embraced the track for its originality. Many artists in the global rap industry have acknowledged Hanumankind’s innovative approach, seeing it as an inspiration for integrating cultural identity into mainstream music. His work is now being compared to global rap icons who use music as a medium to tell powerful stories of heritage and tradition.
Success Following ‘Big Dawgs’
Before Run It Up, Hanumankind rose to fame with Big Dawgs, which received international acclaim. The song briefly surpassed Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us on Spotify’s Top 50 charts and peaked at #9 on the Global charts. Its high-energy music video, shot in a “Well of Death,” became an internet sensation, further solidifying Hanumankind’s reputation as a boundary-pushing artist.
Since the success of Big Dawgs, Hanumankind has continued to push creative boundaries. He has collaborated with both Indian and international artists, expanding his reach beyond the domestic hip-hop scene. His ability to experiment with diverse musical styles while staying true to his roots has positioned him as one of India’s leading rap voices.
Hanumankind to Perform at Coachella 2025
With Run It Up gaining massive traction, Hanumankind is set to make his debut at Coachella 2025, marking his first performance at a major U.S. festival. This milestone highlights the increasing recognition of Indian hip-hop on the global stage.
His inclusion in the Coachella lineup signals a shift in the global music landscape, where non-Western rap artists are receiving the recognition they deserve. This also opens doors for more Indian musicians to make a mark in the global hip-hop industry.
The Future of Hanumankind and Indian Hip-Hop
Hanumankind’s growing influence suggests a bright future for Indian hip-hop. His dedication to promoting Indian culture through music has set a new precedent for upcoming artists. By blending rap with heritage, he is not only redefining the genre in India but also creating a blueprint for future musicians to follow.
His next project is already in the works, and reports suggest that it will be another cultural masterpiece. If his past releases are anything to go by, his upcoming music is expected to push the envelope even further, bringing more elements of Indian folklore into the global rap scene.
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A New Era for Indian Hip-Hop
Hanumankind’s Run It Up is more than just a song—it’s a movement that bridges India’s cultural heritage with modern music. Through his innovative fusion of rap and tradition, he is not only pushing the boundaries of Indian hip-hop but also ensuring that the world takes notice of India’s rich artistic legacy.
With artists like him leading the way, Indian hip-hop is set to break more barriers and reach new heights. The intersection of traditional art forms and contemporary music is proving to be a powerful tool in globalizing India’s cultural narrative, and Hanumankind is at the forefront of this revolution.
