Youngsters in Himachal Pradesh are mixing hip hop with their local dialects and making waves on social media. From Hindi to Chambiyali and Kangri, these rappers are proudly blending their culture into their music.
A group called Shimla Cypher has played a big role in giving these artists a platform. One of its founders, a 20-year-old rapper named Eddy, shared how they started in 2020 and are now getting millions of views. Their biggest challenge? Lack of funds for professional music videos.
Female rappers are also making their mark. A rapper known as Rani appreciates Shimla Cypher for giving her a space to express herself without fear. The underground rap scene has now grown to over 150 artists.
Since 2023, these artists have been meeting twice a month to showcase their freestyle rap and beatboxing skills. Rap lovers from Mandi, Solan, and Kangra travel to Shimla to be part of the movement.
Their increasing popularity landed them performances at Shimla’s Summer and Winter Carnivals. Eddy and his crew even shared the stage with Delhi rapper Raga at a show in Ahmedabad.
With a sponsorship from hip hop fashion brand Urban Monkey, these rappers now aim for national and international recognition. Himachali hip hop is on the rise, and these young stars are determined to make it big.