Rapper Hanumankind has taken the music world by storm, becoming an overnight sensation with his hit track “Big Dawgs.” Released on 10 July 2024, this rap quickly went viral on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. The catchy beats and powerful rhythm have captivated listeners worldwide, even those unfamiliar with the lyrics. Within just two weeks, the song amassed over 1.2 million views on YouTube. As of now, the video has crossed a staggering 119 million views, solidifying Hanumankind’s place in the global rap scene.
But who exactly is Hanumankind, and what makes him such a unique artist? Let’s dive into his journey.
Who is Hanumankind?
Born as Sooraj Cherukat on 17 October 1992 in Malappuram, Kerala, Hanumankind spent his formative years living in various countries due to his father’s career in the oil industry. Sooraj’s upbringing took him across continents, including Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Italy, and the United States, where he spent most of his time in Houston, Texas. It was in Houston that Sooraj, at the age of 15, first discovered his love for rapping. He began by freestyling with his friends, a passion that soon evolved into a serious musical pursuit.
After completing his early education at Houston Community College, Sooraj returned to India in 2012 to further his studies. He enrolled at PSG College of Arts and Science in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. But his true calling was always music.
In 2019, Hanumankind released his debut album, “Daily Dose,” marking his entry into the music world. His unique style and international influences quickly garnered attention. However, it was the release of “Big Dawgs” in 2024 that catapulted him to global fame, making him a household name.
The Meaning Behind the Name ‘Hanumankind’
While his real name is Sooraj Cherukat, the world knows him by his stage name Hanumankind. In an interview, he revealed the inspiration behind this unusual moniker. The name is a fusion of “Hanuman,” a figure known throughout India, and “Mankind,” representing universality. According to Sooraj, Hanuman stands as a cultural symbol in India, and he wanted to combine that with the global concept of humanity. The result was “Hanumankind,” a name that reflects both his Indian roots and his desire to connect with people everywhere.
A Viral Sensation: “Big Dawgs”
“Big Dawgs” has taken social media by storm. The song’s explosive popularity was unexpected, but its infectious beats and high-energy delivery ensured that it quickly became a global hit. Instagram reels and Facebook videos featuring the song flooded timelines, and the track even entered YouTube’s trending list soon after its release. With over 119 million views and counting, the song’s success has boosted Hanumankind’s reputation as a leading figure in the rap world.
Stepping into Films: A New Chapter for Hanumankind
As if dominating the music scene wasn’t enough, Hanumankind is now set to make his acting debut. Malayalam filmmaker Aashiq Abu is directing a movie titled Rifle Club, in which Hanumankind will be playing a significant role. The film also stars renowned director and actor Anurag Kashyap, and Hanumankind will portray Kashyap’s son, Bhira. This marks an exciting new chapter in his career, expanding his influence beyond music into cinema.
As anticipation for Rifle Club builds, fans are eager to see how Hanumankind fares in the world of acting. The film’s poster was recently released, further fueling excitement for this promising crossover into film.