Vedan, an anti-caste rapper from Kerala, has emerged as a powerful voice in the Indian hip-hop scene. His socially conscious lyrics and unflinching critique of caste-based oppression have made him a figure of influence, not just in Malayalam music but across India. This article delves into his journey, his music, and the controversy that has marked his rise to fame. Drawing from sources like Vedan rapper Wikipedia, we explore his biography, his family, and his work in the Malayalam film industry as a playback singer.
Vedan: Biography, Family, and Career
| Biography | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Hirandas Murali |
| Nickname | Vedan |
| Working As | Malayalam rapper, lyricist, playback singer |
| Date of Birth (DOB) | Not publicly available |
| Birth Place | Thrissur, Kerala |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Current Location | Kerala |
| Famous for | Known for his anti-caste rap and the song “Voice of the Voiceless.” |
| Notable Films (as Playback Singer) | Nayattu (2021) – Song: “Narabali”; Manjummel Boys (2024) – Song: “Kuthanthram” |
Vedan Rapper Biography: A Journey from Thrissur to the Stage
Born Hirandas Murali in Thrissur, Kerala, Vedan’s upbringing in a marginalised community played a pivotal role in shaping his worldview and music. The name Vedan, which means “hunter,” is a homage to his community’s tribal roots. His rapper’s hometown, Swapnabhoomi, a colony close to Thrissur railway station, has come to symbolise the challenges he emphasises in his music. Vedan’s mother is from Ooty, Tamil Nadu, adding another layer of cultural diversity to his early life.
Vedan’s father’s folk singing influenced him growing up, but his initial ambition was filmmaking. His passion for Tamil cinema even landed him a minor role in the Malayalam film Kammattipaadam. However, the course of his life changed after facing casteism during the Kerala floods, driving him to use rap as a platform for social commentary.
Vedan’s Music: Amplifying the Voice of the Voiceless
In 2020, Vedan released his debut rap song, “Voice of the Voiceless,” which quickly resonated with audiences for its raw and honest depiction of caste-based discrimination. The song title itself reflects Vedan’s mission: to give a voice to marginalised communities that are often silenced by society. Following the success of his debut, Vedan released “Bhoomi Njan Vazhunidam” the same year, cementing his place in the Malayalam rap scene.
His bold, uncompromising lyrics caught the attention of Tamil filmmaker Pa. Ranjith, known for his works addressing social and caste issues. Vedan has often expressed admiration for Tamil Nadu’s Casteless Collective and fellow rapper Arivu, who also confront caste discrimination through music. He cites influences like Tupac Shakur and Arivu, blending their styles with the unique realities of Kerala’s caste dynamics.
In addition to his independent work, Vedan has contributed to Malayalam cinema as a playback singer, most notably with the song “Narabali” in the film Nayattu (2021). His powerful lyrics and vocals gave the song an edge that complemented the film’s intense narrative. He continued his journey with tracks like “Kuthanthram” for Manjummel Boys (2024) and “La Vida,” a collaboration with KSHMR and Dabzee in 2023.
Vedan as a Playback Singer: A Table of His Contributions
| Year | Song Title | Film/Album | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Narabali | Nayattu (2021) | Lyricist, Singer |
| 2023 | La Vida | KARAM | Lyricist, Singer |
| 2024 | Kuthanthram | Manjummel Boys | Lyricist, Singer |
Family and Cultural Roots
While Vedan keeps his personal life private, glimpses of his family have surfaced in interviews. His father’s involvement in folk singing inspired Vedan’s early musical interests. His mother’s Tamil roots provided another dimension to his understanding of cultural diversity. Vedan’s family remains a supportive presence in his life, although they may not always fully grasp the depth of his socio-political music.
Navigating Controversy: Vedan’s Public Struggles
Vedan’s career has not been without controversy. The Facebook page Women Against Sexual Harassment made public an accusation of sexual misconduct against Vedan in 2021. Initially defensive, Vedan later apologised for his conduct through Instagram, acknowledging his mistakes. However, the apology did not satisfy all the survivors, some of whom claimed he did not reach out to them personally. The incident sparked a larger conversation about accountability and personal conduct within Kerala’s music scene.
Vedan’s Vision: The Future of Socially Conscious Rap
Despite the controversies, Vedan continues to push forward with his music, using it as a tool to challenge societal norms. His goal is to take his message to mainstream platforms, believing that commercial success and art can go hand in hand. He remains committed to using his voice to fight for justice and represent marginalised people.
Social Media
| @vedanwithword | |
| @vedanwithword | |
| Update Soon | |
| Youtube | Update Soon |
FAQs about Vedan, the Malayalam Rapper
1. Who is Vedan?
Vedan is the stage name of Hirandas Murali, a prominent anti-caste rapper from Thrissur, Kerala. His music focuses on social issues, particularly caste-based oppression, and aims to amplify marginalised voices.
2. What is the meaning of Vedan’s name?
The name “Vedan” means “hunter” in Malayalam; it was chosen by the artist to honour his community’s tribal heritage.
3. Where is Vedan from?
Vedan hails from Swapnabhoomi, a colony located near Thrissur railway station in Kerala. His background and the discrimination facing marginalised communities in his area have heavily influenced his music.
4. What are Vedan’s most famous songs?
Some of Vedan’s most notable songs include “Voice of the Voiceless” and “Bhoomi Njan Vazhunidam.” He has also been a playback singer for Malayalam films, contributing tracks like “Narabali” in Nayattu (2021) and “Kuthanthram” in Manjummel Boys (2024).
5. What is Vedan’s connection to Tamil cinema?
Vedan has expressed admiration for Tamil filmmakers like Pa. Ranjith and the Casteless Collective, whose work addresses social and caste issues. He also cites Tamil rapper Arivu as a key influence.
6. Has Vedan faced any controversies?
Indeed, allegations of sexual misconduct against Vedan in 2021 prompted a public apology on Instagram. The incident sparked discussions on accountability within Kerala’s music scene.
7. What role does Vedan’s family play in his music career?
Vedan has credited his father’s folk singing as an early influence on his musical journey. Despite the lack of detailed information about his family, they have demonstrated support for his artistic career.
8. Has Vedan contributed to any films?
Yes, Vedan has worked as a playback singer in several Malayalam films. He contributed the song “Narabali” to the film Nayattu and Kuthanthram to Manjummel Boys.
9. Where can I learn more about Vedan?
For more detailed information about Vedan’s life and career, you can explore sources like Vedan rapper Wikipedia or follow his musical releases online.
10. What is Vedan’s vision for the future?
Vedan aims to take his music to mainstream platforms while continuing to address social injustices through his lyrics. He believes that commercial success and socially conscious art can coexist.
11. Can I download Vedan’s songs for free?
Vedan’s music is available on streaming platforms, but in order to support the artist, you should only download it for free from authorised sources.
Content Gaps and Room for Further Exploration
While Vedan rapper Wikipedia provides valuable insights into his career, there remain areas for deeper exploration. For instance, more detailed analyses of his lyrics, production techniques, and musical collaborations would enrich the understanding of his artistic style. Further examination of his impact on both Kerala’s music scene and the broader Indian hip-hop landscape could offer valuable perspectives on his influence.
Conclusion: Vedan’s Legacy
Triumph and controversy have marked Vedan’s journey from Thrissur to the national stage. His music serves as a powerful critique of caste oppression, earning him a dedicated following. As he continues to evolve as an artist, his work remains a testament to the enduring power of socially conscious music in the face of systemic injustice.
