Vedan, Kerala’s celebrated social justice rapper, faces career uncertainty after being arrested in a drug case. Explore his journey, impact, and the aftermath.
In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples through Kerala’s music industry, celebrated rapper Vedan was arrested on April 28, 2025, after police recovered nearly six grams of cannabis from his apartment in Kochi. The artist, who rose to fame with his powerful social justice anthems, now finds himself at the center of a controversy that threatens to overshadow his musical legacy.
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Who is Vedan: The Voice Behind the Music
Vedan, born Hirandas Murali, emerged as a powerful voice in Kerala’s rap scene with his breakthrough track “Voice of the Voiceless” in 2020. The video quickly garnered over 300,000 views, establishing him as a formidable presence in the regional music industry. With his mixed heritage—his mother hailing from Jaffna, Sri Lanka—Vedan brought a unique perspective to his art.
Growing up in the Swapnabhoomi colony near the Thrissur railway station, Vedan witnessed firsthand the struggles of marginalized communities. These early experiences profoundly shaped his artistic vision and commitment to social justice. Before finding fame, he worked as a studio boy in Thiruvananthapuram, where he honed his craft and developed his distinctive style.
“My art is my politics. It is the politics of caste, class, and colour,” Vedan once stated, encapsulating the philosophy that drives his music. This approach resonated deeply with audiences, particularly young listeners seeking authentic voices addressing social inequalities.
The Arrest: What Happened on April 28
According to police reports, the Drug Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force (DANSAF) conducted a raid at Vedan’s flat near Vyttila in Kochi following a tip-off. The operation led to the seizure of approximately six grams of cannabis and ₹9 lakh in cash. Eight others were present during the arrest, though their identities have not been disclosed.
The incident occurred after Vedan returned to his apartment following a stage performance. Sources close to the investigation revealed that the rapper admitted to drug use during questioning. Despite the relatively small quantity of cannabis found, the case has attracted significant attention due to Vedan’s public profile.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Arrest | April 28, 2025 |
| Location | Flat near Vyttila, Kochi |
| Seized Items | ~6 grams of cannabis, ₹9 lakh cash |
| Arresting Agency | DANSAF (Drug Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force) |
| Legal Status | Eight individuals were present during raid |
| Others Involved | Eight individuals were present during the raid |
Vedan’s Musical Journey and Impact
Vedan has become a household name in Kerala’s rap scene since his debut in 2020. His rise to prominence represents more than just musical success—it symbolizes the growing acceptance of rap as a medium for social commentary in Kerala.
Following his initial success with “Voice of the Voiceless,” Vedan continued to build his reputation with tracks like “Bhoomi Njan Vazhunidam,” which further explored themes of social justice and inequality. His collaboration with acclaimed music director Sushin Shyam for the promotional song of the blockbuster film “Manjummel Boys” expanded his reach beyond the independent music scene.
The vedan rapper rose to fame with his hit ‘Voice of the Voiceless’ which garnered over 300,000 views. His work spans both independent releases and film contributions, including songs for movies like “Nayattu” and his track “La Vida” from the album “KARAM.”
As a Vedan singer, Hirandas Murali has addressed social issues through his powerful lyrics. Drawing inspiration from American rapper Tupac Shakur, Vedan developed a style that blends sharp social critique with compelling musical arrangements, creating a unique space within Kerala’s cultural landscape.
Professional Fallout and Public Response
The immediate consequence of Vedan’s arrest was his removal from the lineup of performers at the LDF government’s fourth anniversary celebrations. Minister Roshy Augustine confirmed this decision, stating that the government could not associate with individuals involved in drug-related cases.
The Vedan arrest news has dominated headlines in Kerala’s entertainment circles. The incident has sparked broader discussions about drug use in the Malayalam film and music industries, with some calling for increased scrutiny of public figures.
Public reaction has been mixed. While some fans continue to support the artist, separating his personal choices from his artistic contributions, others express disappointment at the contradiction between his message of social responsibility and his alleged actions.
| Period | Public Perception | Focus Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-2025 | Celebrated social justice advocate | Musical talent, social messaging |
| Post-Arrest | Controversial figure | Legal issues, personal conduct |
| Current | Under scrutiny | Drug culture in entertainment industry |
The impact of vedan on kerala rap scene cannot be overstated, as he brought social consciousness to mainstream rap. His arrest raises questions about the future of this influence and whether his message will be overshadowed by his controversies.
The Broader Context: Entertainment Industry Under Scrutiny
Vedan’s case is not isolated but part of a pattern of increased scrutiny on drug use in Kerala’s entertainment industry. Authorities have intensified their focus on substance abuse among celebrities, leading to several high-profile investigations in recent months.
This incident has reignited debates about the responsibilities of public figures, particularly those whose art carries social messages. Critics argue that artists who position themselves as voices for social justice should be held to higher standards of personal conduct.
The controversy surrounding the Vedan singer has sparked debates about accountability in the entertainment industry. Industry insiders suggest that this case might lead to more stringent measures to address drug use among performers and creative professionals.
The Uncertain Future of a Voice for Change
The arrest of Vedan marks a significant moment in Kerala’s cultural landscape. As the legal proceedings unfold, questions remain about how this incident will affect both his personal career and the broader movement of socially conscious rap that he helped pioneer in the region.
Many young artists cite the impact of vedan on kerala rap scene as inspiration for their own work. Whether his legacy will ultimately be defined by his artistic contributions or overshadowed by this controversy remains to be seen.
What is clear is that Vedan’s case has opened important conversations about accountability, the responsibilities of public figures, and the complex relationship between art and the artists who create it. As Kerala’s entertainment industry continues to evolve, these discussions will likely shape its future direction and values.
FAQs
Who is Vedan, and what is he known for?
Vedan, born Hirandas Murali, is a Kerala-based rapper who gained fame for his socially conscious music addressing issues of caste, class, and social justice. His breakthrough came with the 2020 release “Voice of the Voiceless,” which quickly gained popularity for its powerful messaging and authentic delivery.
What led to Vedan’s arrest?
Vedan was arrested on April 28, 2025, after police recovered approximately six grams of cannabis from his apartment in Kochi. The raid was conducted by the Drug Anti-Narcotics Special Action Force (DANSAF) following a tip-off. Cash amounting to ₹9 lakh was also seized during the operation.
What notable works has Vedan produced?
Beyond “Voice of the Voiceless,” Vedan has created tracks like “Bhoomi Njan Vazhunidam” and collaborated with music director Sushin Shyam for the promotional song of “Manjummel Boys.” He has also contributed to film soundtracks, including “Nayattu,” and was featured in the album “KARAM” with the track “La Vida.”
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