In a surprising turn of events during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the United States, the worlds of politics and contemporary Indian music collided in a spectacular fashion. The highlight of this unexpected confluence was the performance of Hanumankind, an emerging rapper from India, at one of Modi's high-profile events. This occurrence not only showcased India's diverse talent pool but also underscored Modi's commitment to promoting Indian art and culture on the global stage. The event in question was part of Modi's packed itinerary during his state visit to the US, a trip that garnered significant attention from international media and policy circles alike. While the primary focus of the visit was on strengthening diplomatic ties, discussing trade relations, and addressing global challenges, the inclusion of a performance by an up-and-coming Indian artist added a fresh and dynamic dimension to the proceedings.
Hanumankind, whose real name is Suraj Cherukat, has been making waves in the Indian hip-hop scene with his unique blend of English and Malayalam rap. His lyrics often touch upon social issues, personal struggles, and the complexities of modern life in India. The decision to include such an artist in a formal diplomatic event speaks volumes about the changing face of Indian soft power and the government's recognition of the same. Modi's choice to showcase Hanumankind at this international platform is particularly noteworthy given the traditional perception of the Prime Minister's cultural preferences. It's well known that Modi's public image is often associated with more conventional forms of Indian culture and spirituality. He has frequently been seen participating in traditional rituals, promoting yoga, and referencing ancient Indian texts in his speeches. Therefore, his endorsement of a contemporary art form like rap music represents a significant broadening of the cultural spectrum that India presents to the world. This incident is not an isolated one but part of a larger pattern of Modi's approach to promoting Indian talent across various fields. Throughout his tenure as Prime Minister, Modi has consistently demonstrated a keen interest in supporting and encouraging Indian achievers, particularly those who are breaking new ground or gaining recognition internationally.
In the realm of sports, for instance, Modi has been vocal in his support for Indian athletes. He regularly tweets congratulations to medal winners at international events and has been known to personally call and encourage sports persons before major competitions. This level of engagement from the country's top leader has been unprecedented and has contributed to raising the profile of sports in India. Similarly, in the field of science and technology, Modi has been a strong advocate for Indian innovations and achievements. He has actively promoted initiatives like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) missions, often sharing updates and congratulating the scientists involved. His support extends to grassroots innovations as well, with programs aimed at identifying and nurturing talent from all corners of the country.
Modi's approach to cultural promotion is particularly interesting because it transcends his personal tastes or preferences. While it's unlikely that the Prime Minister is a regular consumer of rap music or video games, his willingness to promote these forms of expression demonstrates a pragmatic and inclusive approach to cultural diplomacy. This strategy acknowledges the diverse interests of India's youth and the changing landscape of global popular culture. The performance by Hanumankind at the US event serves as a perfect example of this approach. Rap music, with its roots in African American culture, has become a global phenomenon, resonating with young people across the world. By presenting an Indian take on this global art form, Modi's team effectively communicated India's ability to absorb, adapt, and contribute to global cultural trends. Moreover, this incident highlights the changing nature of Indian diaspora engagement. Traditionally, outreach to overseas Indians often focused on classical art forms or Bollywood. While these remain important, the inclusion of contemporary artists like Hanumankind acknowledges the evolving tastes of second and third-generation diaspora youth, who might find these modern art forms more relatable.