When Hanumankind took the stage at Coachella 2025, he didn’t just perform; he transported the audience to the vibrant festivals of Kerala. The rapper, known for his dynamic presence and lyrical prowess, introduced the traditional chenda melam to an international audience, creating a fusion that resonated deeply with fans worldwide.
Hanumankind, born Sooraj Cherukat, has always been proud of his Kerala roots. At Coachella, he collaborated with Kochuveetil Beats, a group of skilled chenda drummers, to bring the rhythmic essence of Kerala to the desert stage. Dressed in traditional white attire, the ensemble delivered a performance that was both authentic and electrifying.
The setlist featured hits like “Run It Up” and “Big Dawgs,” with the chenda‘s powerful beats intertwining seamlessly with Hanumankind‘s rap verses. This blend of traditional percussion and contemporary hip-hop created a soundscape that was both novel and deeply rooted in cultural heritage. The audience’s reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with many taking to social media to express their admiration for the unique performance.
Hanumankind‘s Coachella performance marked a significant moment for Indian music on the global stage. By integrating chenda melam into his act, he not only showcased the richness of Kerala‘s musical traditions but also highlighted the versatility of Indian rhythms in contemporary music contexts. This fusion has opened doors for other artists to explore and present their cultural heritage to wider audiences.
The success of this performance underscores the potential of blending traditional music forms with modern genres. Hanumankind‘s innovative approach serves as an inspiration for artists worldwide to delve into their cultural roots and experiment with fusion, leading to richer and more diverse musical landscapes.
Hanumankind‘s groundbreaking performance at Coachella is just one example of how artists are redefining music by embracing their cultural identities. Explore more stories of musical innovation and cultural fusion on our website. Stay tuned for in-depth articles, artist interviews, and the latest trends in the global music scene. Read other articles on Hanumankind here.
