Reble Is Coming for the Crown
With a handful of fiery singles and show-stealing features, Shillong-based Reble is on the cusp of becoming a force in Indian hip hop—and your favourite rapper’s favourite rapper. By Karan Madhok
We Need to Talk About Hanumankind
With an electrifying, viral video, Hanumankind’s “Big Dawgs” has become Indian hip hop’s biggest global smash. In an email exchange, Karan Madhok and Nakul Yadav discuss his unlikely breakthrough, the future of Indian rap, and Baba Sehgal’s “Aaja Meri Gaadi Mein Baith Ja”.
808s & Sufiyana: Ahmer’s hip hop tapestry from the Kashmir Valley
Srinagar-based rapper Ahmer spoke to The Chakkar about how a deeper examination of his own community, culture, and history helped jolt him out of his comfort zone, and inspire his ambitious sophomore LP, Azli. By Karan Madhok
Ray, Irfana & Taslina, and Albert Camus - What’s The Chakkar?
What’s The Chakkar? Episode 9: We’re watching Ray; listening to Irfana & Taslina; reading Albert Camus and Anthony Doerr. Featuring Prateek Santram, Anurag Tagat, and Shaista Vaishnav. Hosted by Karan Madhok.
Kranti Havi: How Swadesi Became India’s Most Potent Voice of Protest Hip Hop
“We intend to only make people realise that they can only change themselves before changing the world.” Multilingual Indian hip hop crew Swadesi discuss their inspirations, their place in India’s music scene, and sparking a revolution through rap -by Karan Madhok.
Divine, Samit Basu, and Scam 1992 - What’s The Chakkar?
What’s The Chakkar? Episode 2: We’re listening to Divine; watching Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story; reading Samit Basu and DBC Pierre. Featuring Ady Manral, Shaista Vaishnav, and Jamie Alter. Hosted by Karan Madhok
The World is Ours—Divine leads the rise of Desi Rap, with an assist from Nas
The unlikely fandom of American rap legend Nas in India; and the surprising connection between Nas, Divine, and the rise of India’s real hip hop culture. - an essay by Karan Madhok.