The latest single from Indian rapper Hanumankind, “Big Dawgs,” has been making waves across social media since its release in July 2024 under the Universal India music label.
Written by Sooraj Cherukat, known as Hanumankind, and produced by Kalmi, “Big Dawgs” combines Indian and Western beats with an intense punk vibe. The song speaks about resilience, determination, and ambition and is an homage to Hanumankind’s home country and the many musical and cultural influences in his life.
“As a producer, I don’t listen to a lot of hip-hop,” said Kalmi. “I think that allows me to think outside the box and innovate more than I would be able to otherwise. If I’d known ‘the rules,’ I might’ve done something less impactful.” Born in Kerala, Cherukat’s career began with his debut single, “Daily Dose,” in 2019. Since then, the rapper has released twelve singles and two extended plays, including his latest 2024 release, “Big Dawgs.”
Since its release, “Big Dawgs” has gained global traction on social media platforms like TikTok, with over 100 million views and streams on Spotify worldwide. Additionally, the single reached the 9th spot on Billboard’s Global 100 chart and the 8th spot on the U.S. Exclusive Chart. The music video for “Big Dawgs” has garnered well over 80 million views in just one month.
Directed by Bijoy Shetty and shot by Abhinay Pandit, the music video was filmed in the rapper’s home city of Kerala at the Great Indian Maruty Circus’ “Well of Death,” traditionally known as Marana Kinar.
The music video showcases the Well of Death’s famous carnival act, with motorcyclists and even cars performing dangerous and exhilarating stunts. It highlights and pays tribute to the unique culture and spectacle. In an interview with Indian entertainment website Homegrown, Shetty and Pandit shared their thoughts on the success of the music video.
“The thing about this project was that it was personal for everybody. Nobody went, ‘Eh, it’s just another video.’ That’s the headspace that will mess everything up. As soon as you go, ‘It’s just another video,’ then you have to make a different video. Abhinav knew right from the beginning that this was something special. Mehran also knew as he was cutting it that this was not something that we or anybody else had seen before,” said Shetty.
