Kerala hip-hop reality show ZEE5 Indie Kerala Underground will showcase emerging Malayalam rap talent with mentorship from leading artists and original music releases.
KOCHI: Kerala hip-hop reality show ZEE5 Indie Kerala Underground is set to bring the state’s underground rap culture to mainstream audiences through a new reality competition celebrating authentic storytelling, music and local talent.
Streaming exclusively on ZEE5 Global, the series aims to discover and nurture the next generation of Malayalam hip-hop artists while highlighting the culture, identity and experiences that define Kerala’s growing rap movement. Auditions will take place in Kochi on 30 June, with aspiring performers competing for a place among the show’s top 10 contestants.
The programme features leading figures from Kerala’s hip-hop scene, including Dabzee, MC Couper, Imbachi and Parimal Shais, who will mentor contestants throughout the competition. Hosted by Aathira Rajeev, the series combines live performances, creative challenges and personal storytelling, offering audiences an insight into the artists behind the music.
Unlike traditional music competitions, the show focuses on the lived experiences of participants, exploring the communities, struggles and inspirations that shape their creative journeys. Filmed across real locations in Kerala using a documentary-style approach, the series reflects the authenticity of a movement that continues to gain recognition across India.
Lloyd Xavier, Business Head for Tamil and Malayalam at ZEE5, said the platform was created to celebrate regional music, authentic voices and emerging talent while giving artists an opportunity to reach audiences nationwide. Original tracks from the programme will also be released through Zee Music Company.
The Kerala hip-hop reality show highlights the growing influence of Malayalam rap as a cultural movement rather than simply a music genre. By combining mentorship, competition and original music, Kerala hip-hop reality show aims to provide a national platform for artists whose voices have emerged from Kerala’s underground music scene.
