Thrissur, Kerala:
In recent times, rapper Vedan, whose real name is Hiran Das Murali, has become a major topic of discussion across social media platforms and YouTube channels in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Known for his revolutionary songs, Vedan has emerged as a voice for the oppressed. Currently, controversies surrounding his music in Kerala have propelled him into a central point of debate.
Who is Vedan?
Born on October 25, 1994, in Thrissur, Kerala, Hiran Das Murali's mother is a Tamil Eelam native from Jaffna, Sri Lanka, who migrated to Ooty, Tamil Nadu, before her marriage. In his childhood, he was exceptionally skilled at fishing, earning him the nickname 'Vedan' (meaning 'hunter') from his friends, which later became his stage name.
In 2020, "Voice of the Voiceless," his debut music video, garnered Vedan significant attention. Through his hip-hop rap music, he directly addresses the pain, oppression, and political criticisms of marginalized communities. He writes, composes, and performs his own songs. His music, with its overt political and social commentary, has made him recognized as one of the prominent voices for the oppressed in Kerala. It's said that he garners larger crowds than even popular music composers like A.R. Rahman and Anirudh.
Popular Songs:
Vedan's songs are typically structured to question social justice and oppression. His "Voice of the Voiceless" track marked a major turning point in his career. In addition, many of his other rap songs have gone viral on social media. His songs, which primarily focus on Dalit politics and critique oppression, have been well-received among the youth.
Latest Song Release and Million Views:
Vedan has recently released the song "Vaada Vedan" in collaboration with Jakes Bejoy for Tovino Thomas's upcoming film "Narivetta." This song has already achieved a milestone of over one million views on YouTube within days of its release. The "Vaada Vedan" promo is available on the Sony Music South YouTube channel.
The Controversy in Kerala:
Recently, Vedan's songs have sparked significant controversy in Kerala. BJP and Hindu organizations have sharply criticized him and filed complaints against him.
- Songs on Prime Minister Modi: V.S. Minimol, a BJP leader and Palakkad Municipal Councilor, has filed a complaint with the Union Home Ministry and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), alleging that one of Vedan's songs insults Prime Minister Narendra Modi and incites caste-based division. Specifically, she referenced lyrics from his four-year-old song "Voice of the Voiceless," stating that lines such as "fake patriotism" and "the country in the hands of the sword-wielder" insult the Prime Minister and create caste divisions within the Hindu community.
- Drug Case: On April 28, Vedan was arrested in a drug case near Thrippunithura, Kochi. Although he is currently out on bail, there are allegations that he organizes large-scale music events where he incites violence and hatred.
Social Disparagement: K.P. Sasikala, leader of Hindu Aikya Vedi, has criticized Vedan's "improper attire and actions" as disparaging to society, stating that rap music has no connection with the Dalit community.
Vedan's songs, particularly his outspoken views on Dalit politics, have ignited a significant debate in Kerala's political and social spheres. His artistic freedom, his role as a voice for the oppressed, and the criticisms against him have become a major topic of discussion in Kerala. This issue has also gained considerable attention in Tamil Nadu, with many expressing opinions both for and against Vedan.
