Hanumankind, the artist redefining the boundaries between music, culture, and storytelling, continues to break barriers with his latest album. His new work is much more than just music—it’s a powerful tribute to his roots, seamlessly blending the rich cultural traditions of Kerala with high-energy beats and modern rhythms. The visuals are nothing short of spectacular, incorporating the ancient martial art of Kalari Payattu, the sacred Theyam dance form, and the thunderous sounds of Kerala’s Chenda drums, delivering a visceral experience that celebrates the diversity and strength of his heritage.
Born in Kerala and raised in Houston, Hanumankind’s music deeply draws from his cultural roots, weaving his native traditions into a dynamic, contemporary sound. His track “Run It Up,” produced by Kalmi, opens with a bold declaration—“Run it up, the sun is up, get your money up”—a message of self-determination and hustle that echoes the tireless spirit of Kerala’s people and beyond. This anthem pushes forward Hanumankind’s journey toward self-empowerment, blending reverence for history with a fierce determination for success.
The Spirit of Resilience in “Run It Up”
The lyrics in “Run It Up” are a testament to resilience and ambition. Hanumankind raps, “We dealing with things you ain’t seen before, we feeling the weight of our ancestors,” grounding the song in the triumphs and struggles of those who came before him. The song is a mix of historical reverence with modern energy, pushing the idea of rising against the odds, defying challenges, and embracing cultural pride. Lines like “I’m here to change up the story” and “Culture carried down from those who came up before me” make it clear that Hanumankind is not just honoring his heritage—he’s actively shaping a new legacy.
The power of his message is reinforced through Kalari Payattu, one of the oldest martial arts in the world. In his stunning visuals, Hanumankind brings to life Kerala’s martial arts traditions. Kalari Payattu symbolizes precision, discipline, and inner strength. It’s no coincidence that these same qualities are reflected in his music: both are about strength, resilience, and balance. This martial art represents the warrior spirit in Hanumankind, serving as a metaphor for his battles and victories.
Exploring Cultural Depths with Khalsa and Theyam
Photo by Anantha Krishnan on Unsplash
But Hanumankind’s reverence for culture doesn’t stop with Kalari. His music also delves into other martial arts traditions across India, showcasing Hanumankind’s respect for the vastness of his cultural heritage. His music is a true fusion, blending the traditional with the modern, creating a soundscape that feels both fresh and authentic.
The album also expands into spiritual realms through the sacred Theyam dance form of Kerala. Known for its vibrant costumes and dramatic performances, Theyam connects dancers to the divine, embodying devotion, strength, and transformation. These powerful visuals remind us of the spiritual roots from which Hanumankind draws inspiration.
Furthermore, the album integrates the Khalsa tradition, representing the Sikh warrior culture. Khalsa is about bravery, faith, and unity. Hanumankind’s embrace of this tradition brings forth a powerful message of honoring all parts of his ancestry. It’s a celebration of warriors, artists, and spiritual seekers, with the fusion of Kalari, Khalsa, and Theyam forming a unique synergy that speaks to his respect for diverse cultural practices.
The Rhythms of Chenda and Global Sound
No tribute to Kerala would be complete without the deep, resonant sounds of the Chenda drum. The hypnotic, thunderous beats of the Chenda are iconic in Kerala’s festivals, and Hanumankind uses these rhythms to drive the tempo of his tracks. The Chenda’s powerful sound grounds his music, connecting modern beats to the traditional heart of his heritage, reinforcing the message of resilience, unity, and strength.
Hanumankind’s ability to blend these traditional Kerala elements with global soundscapes is what sets him apart. Whether it’s through his bold lyrics in “Run It Up” or the visual spectacle of Kalari, Khalsa, and Theyam, Hanumankind crafts an experience that is deeply rooted in tradition while boldly embracing the future.
A Cultural Ambassador Making Waves Globally
The success of Hanumankind’s previous track, “Big Dawgs,” which garnered over 211 million views on YouTube, laid the groundwork for his international success. With his new album, Hanumankind is not just creating music—he’s shaping a global cultural movement that highlights the beauty and complexity of Kerala’s martial arts, dance, and spiritual traditions. His music isn’t merely about hustle; it’s about pride, community, and elevating cultural narratives on a global stage.
As Hanumankind says in “Run It Up,” “We went from nothing to something, got all of them jumping”—his journey is one of defying the odds and building something that uplifts his people. With every track, he celebrates the richness of Kerala’s culture while making it accessible to a global audience. By blending Kalari, Khalsa, and Theyam into his music, Hanumankind exemplifies the true meaning of cultural fusion—respecting the past while innovating for the future.
A New Legacy of Cultural Fusion
Hanumankind’s new album is a testament to the power of cultural fusion and self-determination. The inclusion of Kalari Payattu, Khalsa, Theyam, and the Chenda drum creates a sonic and visual experience that is both rooted in the past and pushing toward the future. Through his music, Hanumankind not only honors his heritage but brings it to the world stage, reminding everyone of the strength, pride, and resilience embedded in cultural traditions. “Run It Up” is more than just a track—it’s an anthem for those who rise, who hustle, and who never forget their roots.
