The Pioneering Indian Female Rappers Preceding Badshah
Mention the topic of Indian rap, and most minds first turn to Badshah, the prominent rapper whose impactful presence has redefined the genre. However, years before Badshah rose to prominence, a few Indian female rappers established themselves as trailblazers. This article aims to bring light to these remarkable pioneers who set the stage for Badshah and other future Indian female rappers.
Introduction to Indian Rap
The world of Indian rap, also known as Indianhip hop, is a vibrant and evolving scene that finds its roots in how the youth in metropolitan cities feel about their surroundings, societal issues, and cultural identities. This genre has garnered immense popularity in recent years, thanks to the contributions of numerous artists who have brought a fresh perspective to traditional Indian music and culture through their unique fusion.
Trailblazers in Indian Female Rapping
MIA (Mathilesh Ambrose)
MIA, whose full name is Mathilesh Ambrose but is predominantly known by her stage name, made a name for herself in the early 2000s. Born in the UK to Sri Lankan Tamil parents, MIA's music is deeply influenced by both Eastern and Western cultures, a profound blend that is evident in her rap and protest songs.
One of her most renowned tracks, "Galang," has been praised for its poignant lyrics and powerful delivery, raising awareness about global issues such as war and poverty. MIA's journey is a testament to the fact that the Indian rap scene can bridge the gap between cultures and bring to light important worldwide issues.
Multifaith Oceans
Multifaith Oceans, a Malayali rapper and singer, emerged in the hip hop scene in the early 2010s. She is well-known for her contributions to the Kerala rap scene, where her work has helped to spread awareness about local and global social issues. Her unique style, characterized by a mix of Malayalam and English, resonates with a wide audience.
Multifaith Oceans uses her platform to promote mental health awareness, advocate for LGBTQ rights, and speak out against gender-based violence. Her song "Ettakkalachey" has become an anthem for LGBTQ individuals in India, highlighting the challenges they face in a conservative society.
Jaspreet Singh
Jaspreet Singh, a prominent figure in Delhi's underground rap scene, breaks away from the conventional stereotypes associated with rap. She brings a nuanced approach to Indian rap, dealing with topics ranging from domestic violence and the Indian education system to sexuality and mental health.
Jaspreet's track "Parle Pyar" addresses domestic violence, a topic that is too often glossed over in the media. Her fearless rap and heartfelt lyrics have brought critical attention to this issue, making her a voice for those who are often silenced.
Legacy and Influence
The journey of these pioneering Indian female rappers is a cornerstone in the evolution of the Indian rap scene. They exemplify resilience, creativity, and a dedication to using their platform to make a change. Each one of them has not only provided a voice for themselves but also for a broader audience of listeners who may not have had a platform to express their thoughts and feelings.
The legacy of these rappers is that of paving the way for future generations of women to express themselves freely, without fear of judgment or societal constraints. Their music continues to inspire aspiring rappers and to challenge the norms and stereotypes associated with Indian rap.
Conclusion
The rise of Badshah, while significant, is part of a larger narrative of Indian female rappers breaking barriers and asserting their voices in the rap scene. The stories of MIA, Multifaith Oceans, and Jaspreet Singh serve as a reminder of the power of words and how they can drive change, giving a voice to the voiceless and promoting a more inclusive society.