Latest news with #Raftaar
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Karma: 'I am an introvert, but music gave me my voice'
For the Dehradun-born rapper Vivek Arora aKa Karma making waves in India's hip-hop scene, growth isn't just part of the process—it's the entire point. 'I'm in my evolution stage. I just want to try everything and give my best to it,' he says with clarity and conviction. Karma has recently released his single, Do U Wanna This idea of constant transformation runs through every aspect of his journey—from his early days freestyling in obscurity to now collaborating with big-name artists and producers. He doesn't see himself as someone who's 'made it' just yet. If anything, he's still a student—curious, hungry, and unafraid to switch gears in a space where sticking to a formula has become the norm. His latest single, Do U Wanna, is a product of that mindset. The track blends lyrical hip-hop with melodic grooves, offering a refreshing sound that stands apart from what's currently dominating the charts. 'It's a song about celebrating love, but more than that, it's about offering something new. I think the sound is getting too monotonous. Everyone's playing it safe. But that's not me,' he says. But his commitment to artistic evolution isn't just about sound—it's about storytelling. Growing up in Dehradun, he didn't have a roadmap to fame. What he had was an urge to be heard. 'I'm an introvert, but music gave me a voice. I wasn't chasing numbers or clout. I just wanted people to hear my story,' he says. And over time, that story began to resonate. From rapping about run-ins with the system to confronting personal mistakes, his lyrics became a mirror for listeners who saw themselves in his words. His authenticity has also shaped his approach to collaboration. On his EP How Much a Rhyme Costs?, he brought in artists like Raftaar and KSHMR, not for clout, but because they elevated the narrative. 'Every collaboration should have a character. Raftaar was the only one who could do justice to Karta Kya Hai. With KSHMR, it was next-level—he understands the artist so well, it's like custom-making music,' he explains. Songwriting, for him, isn't just a skill—it's survival. 'It's therapy. Whatever I'm going through, I write it down. It's how I process everything. But songwriting also demands honesty. You can't write about strength unless you're strong. So if I'm writing about it, I have to be it,' he says. That rawness comes through in tracks like Bada and Karta Kya Hai, which blur the line between personal journaling and universal ambition. 'I remember freestyling about fans chanting my name when I had zero streams. Five years later, it happened. That's not just music—it's manifestation,' he recalls. As Indian hip-hop grows into a global force, he's aware of the moment—but refuses to be defined by it. 'We're seeing Indian artists go global, and that's something to celebrate. But my job is to deliver good music and do it without selling out. My uniqueness lies in my storytelling—it's like a movie unfolding through lyrics. I want to set the standard for hip-hop shows, brand deals, aesthetics… everything,' he says. Looking ahead, he insists he's just getting warmed up. 'Everything I've done so far? That was just to get my foot in the door. Now the real work begins. I want to keep evolving, keep exploring. The sound will keep changing—but the goal will stay the same: to tell my story, honestly and unapologetically,' he says.
Time of India
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
In a world full of performances, authenticity has become rare currency: Raftaar gets real about betrayal on 'The Traitors'
One of the most popular rappers in the Indian hip-hop scene, Raftaar, is also going to be starring in the new and upcoming variety show 'The Traitor'. Hailing from Trivandrum, Kerala, the actor is well known for his multifaceted projects. From working as a music producer, lyricist, singer, rapper, and even a dancer as well as an actor! Some of his most popular songs include but are not limited to 'Morni', 'Dhaakad', 'Legacy', 'Ghana Kasoota', and 'Baby Marvaake Manegi'. He's known for his fierce verses, high-octane stage energy, and unapologetic authenticity . From underground hip-hop battles to chart-topping anthems, Raftaar has long been a name synonymous with hustle, evolution, and self-made stardom. But recently, the rapper-singer explored a very different stage—one filled with alliances, suspicion, and strategy—as a contestant on the gripping reality show ' The Traitors ' on Prime Video. In an exclusive chat with ETimes, Raftaar opens up about his time on the show, the emotional undercurrents of betrayal , and the real-life parallels he couldn't ignore. His words are candid, reflective, and—like his music—hit hard. Participating in the gripping psychological game show 'The Traitors', Raftaar found himself surrounded by suspicion, strategy, and the sting of betrayal. Though his stint on the show was brief, it left a deep impact—and he's now ready to talk about it. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like เทรด CFDs ด้วยเทคโนโลยีเทรดสุดล้ำ และ รวดเร็วกว่า IC Markets สมัคร Undo 'The experience, though short, was truly enriching,' he says. 'It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a chance to engage with people in a completely new environment. Sometimes, the shortest chapters in our lives end up teaching us the most powerful lessons.' One of the most striking elements of 'The Traitors' is the real-time betrayal that forms the show's core. While Raftaar was aware of this going in, living through it was something else entirely. 'Even though betrayal is a known part of the format, feeling it in real time still hits hard,' he admits. 'I've always valued transparency and loyalty, and when that gets tested, it stays with you. But I get it—everyone's just trying to survive in the game in their own way. In a world full of performances, authenticity has become rare currency.' This theme of betrayal, he reveals, isn't confined to the screen. It's something he has dealt with off-screen too, especially during his formative years in the music industry. 'There were moments when I was trying to figure things out, trusting people, building something from scratch—and some of those bonds didn't last,' he reflects. 'It hurt. But over time, I've learned that not every bond is meant to last. And that's okay. Not every closed door is a betrayal—some are actually redirections.' During the show, Raftaar also shared space with filmmaker Karan Johar , who served as the host. Despite their different creative paths, Raftaar holds Karan in high regard. 'My rapport with Karan Sir has always been warm and respectful. He belongs to a different creative universe, but he's built an empire through vision and hard work. Whenever we've interacted, it's been rooted in mutual appreciation.' Would he consider going back to the show as a wild card? The answer is a confident yes—but not for reasons one might expect. 'I'd definitely be open to it. The goal is not to impress anyone, but to approach the game with a new perspective. Once you've lived through it, your understanding evolves. And when the mind knows better, the strategy naturally shifts.' When asked about the biggest lesson he took away from the show, Raftaar doesn't hesitate. 'To never doubt my instincts. In that house, everything is heightened—emotions, energy, suspicion. It becomes very easy to question your own judgment. But your gut rarely lies. I've learned that silence is often louder than words, especially in rooms full of whispers.' And if he were to imagine Bollywood actors in 'The Traitors' universe? 'I wouldn't divide them into heroes and traitors,' he says thoughtfully. 'I'd look for those with depth—people who carry both calm and chaos within them. The game isn't about black and white. It's about layers. That's where the real magic lies.' From decoding people to decoding beats, Raftaar continues to evolve—unapologetically and on his own terms. Whether on stage, in a reality show, or just in life, he proves that instincts, integrity, and individuality will always be his core rhythm.
Hindustan Times
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
The Traitors renewed for second season, Amazon Prime Video shares update on Karan Johar-hosted show
Following the release of the first few episodes of the first season of The Traitors, social media is abuzz with the drama and fights that have taken place in the reality show hosted by Karan Johar. On Wednesday, Amazon Prime Video announced that it has officially greenlit a second season of the show. (Also read: The Traitors: Raftaar gets eliminated, reasons that he would rather be out with good character) The Traitors will be back for a second season. Adapted from the BAFTA and Emmy Award-winning global format by IDTV, and produced in collaboration with All3Media International, The Traitors is one of the fastest-growing reality show formats worldwide, with over 35 local versions across 30+ countries. Since its India premiere on June 12, the show has sparked a wave of fan reactions and theories across social media. Prime Video shared that The Traitors has been watched by viewers across 88% of India's pin codes. Nikhil Madhok, Director and Head of Originals, Prime Video, India said in a statement, 'It's been incredibly rewarding to see The Traitors strike such a powerful chord with audiences across India. With its distinctive mix of tension, strategy and emotional honesty, brought to life by our versatile host, Karan Johar and a stellar line up of players who have brought their A-game to the show, the series has emerged as a true breakout. As we continue to shape a bold and diverse unscripted slate at Prime Video, The Traitors stands out as a marquee title that pushes the boundaries of the reality genre. Buoyed by the overwhelming response, we're thrilled to begin work on Season Two and take the experience to the next level.' Sabrina Duguet, EVP APAC at All3Media International, added, 'We're thrilled with the overwhelming reception and audience response to the Indian adaptation of The Traitors. Our fantastic collaboration with Prime Video resulted in delivering a version of the format that feels both fresh and true to its core, one that struck a real chord with viewers, who came for the thrill, drama, and their favorite celebrities, but stayed for the novelty, intrigue, and high entertainment quotient. Given the show's rising popularity within just weeks of its launch, we're delighted that Prime Video is greenlighting the development of season 2 of the much-loved format that's sure to raise the bar even higher.' The Traitors season 1 saw 20 celebrities in the show, including Anshula Kapoor, Apoorva Mukhija, Ashish Vidyarthi, Elnaaz Nourouzi, Harsh Gujral, Jannat Zubair, Janvi Gaur, Jasmin Bhasin, Karan Kundrra, Lakshmi Manchu, Maheep Kapoor, Mukesh Chhabra, Nikita Luther, Purav Jha, Raftaar, Raj Kundra, Sahil Salathia, Sudhanshu Pandey, Sufi Motiwala, and Uorfi Javed. Until now, Raj Kundra, Lakshmi Manchu, Sahil Salathia, Maheep Kapoor, Mukesh Chhabra, and Raftaar have been eliminated. Elnaaz Norouzi and Purav Jha are the traitors, which the rest of the contestants do not know. New episodes air every Thursday at 8 pm on Prime Video.
Indian Express
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Samay Raina questions Apoorva Mukhija and Raftaar on ‘majboori' that forced them to join Karan Johar's The Traitors: ‘I didn't have fun at all'
Content creator Apoorva Mukhija recently sat down to review the latest episodes of The Traitors with co-contestant and rapper Raftaar. In the vlog that Apoorva dropped on YouTube, while she and Raftaar decoded the episodes, comedian Samay Raina also joined them through a video call and questioned them on why they chose to do the show. Later, The Rebel Kid and Raftaar also shared how the show has caused them anxiety and how insulting the eviction process was on The Traitors. During the vlog, The Rebel Kid received a video call from Samay Raina, where he said, 'Kya kar rahe ho tumlog yaar? Aisi kya majboori aayi tum dono ko… (What are you guys doing? What was the dire need to do this?)' Later, Raftaar also revealed that Samay Raina was also supposed to participate in the show; however, he had to drop out due to date issues. Further, Samay said, 'When you both know so much? Why did you go on The Traitors?' Also Read: The Rebel Kid aka Apoorva Mukhija makes explosive claims about The Traitors, reveals Karan Johar personally interviewed contestants: 'I lied about lots of things to be on the show' A post shared by Apoorva (@ Apoorva also took a jibe at the tricky editing the show's team has done. Later in the video, she went on to say, 'When I was on the show, I didn't have fun at all. I used to be very stressed about getting murdered, because they would not evict you with dignity. Until you reached the breakfast table, you wouldn't know if you were murdered, so you would do your hair, makeup, etc. And they would just invite you to the video diary room and ask you to leave. Your luggage would be kept packed and in the car. The car would be standing outside, and you were just supposed to leave the property.' Raftaar also recalled the moment he was evicted from the show, 'While we were shooting and would get murdered or evicted, the team would pack our things and bring them down. We could not even go back to our room then. I left the Circle of Shaq room and went straight to the car. In a few minutes, my luggage was loaded and I was shifted. The next day, early morning, 6 am was my flight.' Apoorva also revealed how an anxiety-inducing music would be played in the Circle of Shaq room and further shared that getting murdered was all the more insulting than getting evicted. 'You at least got a chance to say bye if others evicted you. There would be so much anxiety, you would see everyone going down the stairs and waiting for your turn. Amazon did a great job of making us anxious, ' The Rebel Kid said. Raftaar also revealed how every contestant had gotten frustrated after a point. He shared, 'Even I have abused a lot on the show, though I hurled those abuses on myself, you don't deserve so much hate because you cuss.' Responding to Raftaar, Apoorva said, 'I am totally at fault for abusing the show for no reason, I would not even realize that I was being recorded on camera. I had lost the plot and just wanted to go home. I had said this in every video diary, which was not shown.' The Traitors streams on Amazon Prime every Thursday, and the show has been getting lots of negative response from the audience as well as the contestants.
Indian Express
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Raftaar slams Indian-origin Canadian rapper Tommy Genesis for dressing up as Maa Kaali in bold ‘True Blu' video: ‘Mockery of my religion'
Rapper Raftaar has slammed Indian-origin Canadian rapper Tommy Genesis over her latest music video, 'True Blu.' Raftaar has accused Tommy of disrespecting his religion in the video. He not only reported the video himself but also urged his fans to do the same. The controversial music video shows Tommy covered in blue body paint, adorned with gold jewellery, a red bindi, and red lips — an appearance many have likened to Hindu goddess Maa Kali. The video also features Tommy holding a cross and making inappropriate gestures, including licking the cross and performing sexualised movements. The video, released on June 20, has sparked outrage online, with many accusing her of disrespecting both Hinduism and Christianity. Raftaar took to his Instagram Stories on Sunday to express his anger. He slammed the video and encouraged his followers to report Tommy Genesis' music video on YouTube. He also posted a screenshot of his own report submission and wrote 'Report This.' In another post, he added, 'This is a mockery of my religion. This shouldn't exist,' making it clear that the clip had offended him. Other comments on the 'True Blu' music video on YouTube echoed Raftaar's sentiments. One user wrote, 'Thanks Raftaar for letting us know, Reporting this video.' Another said, 'Dear Tommy, Kali didn't destroy demons for this.' Yet another comment read, 'Ur literally disrespecting Ma Kali (Hindu goddess) and Christianity at the same time. It's so disgusting! Take this video down.' Who is Tommy Genesis? Genesis Yasmine Mohanraj, known by her stage name Tommy Genesis, is a Canadian rapper and model. She released her debut self-titled album Tommy Genesis in November 2018, followed by her second album Goldilocks X in September 2021. She is of Malayali, Tamil, and Swedish descent.
