π§ Indian Hip-Hop Weekly Round-Up (June 2025)
From booming Punjabi rap to rising indie labels — here's everything you need to know this week in Desi hip-hop. π
1. Karan Aujla & Ikky’s “At Peace” Crosses 5M Views in 24 Hrs π₯
Release Date: June 26, 2025
Punjabi rap powerhouse Karan Aujla teams up once again with hitmaker Ikky for their cinematic single “At Peace.” In just 24 hours, the video crossed 5 million views on YouTube, solidifying their streak of hits following “Softly” and “52 Bars.” A moody, soulful anthem with razor-sharp visuals. π¬
2. Seedhe Maut Launches Indie Label DL91 Era π€
Delhi’s most iconic rap duo, Calm and Encore ABJ aka Seedhe Maut, officially go independent with their new label DL91 Era. Their debut project “DL91 FM” (released May 3) features raw bars and rising names like Lil Bhavi, OG Lucifer, and Samay Raina. A major step in pushing self-owned platforms. πΌ
3. KRSNA Drops New Mixtape “Yours Truly” πΏ
KRSNA, the Delhi rhyme-slayer, dropped his long-anticipated mixtape “Yours Truly” on May 22 via Mass Appeal India. With lyrical dexterity and signature intensity, the project further cements his dominance, following previous collabs with DIVINE and Seedhe Maut. π₯
4. Kerala Rapper Dabzee Briefly Arrested π
Rising artist Dabzee (Mohammed Fasil) was briefly detained in May due to an alleged finance dispute involving personal connections. Though released on bail, the buzz has put a spotlight on the Malayali hip-hop scene and its growing complexities. π§Ύ
π Trends to Watch:
- Global crossovers: From Travis Scott’s sold-out Delhi show to Punjabi rap going international, India’s rap wave is peaking π
- Rise of independent control: Artists like Seedhe Maut are proving that going indie = more creativity, more impact π‘
- Mass Appeal India’s growing role: Providing infrastructure and reach for talents like KRSNA to thrive π