The decision to honour rapper Hirandas Murali, popularly known as Vedan, for Best Lyricist on Monday at the 55th Kerala State Film Awards has ignited a major controversy, drawing widespread criticism from various quarters, including social media users and women’s rights advocates.
Vedan, who received the award for the song 'Kuthanthram' in Manjummel Boys, is currently facing serious allegations of sexual assault. The announcement has left many questioning the ethics and credibility of the state awards, especially given that previous contenders were reportedly sidelined in earlier years due to ongoing legal cases.
While several artists and political figures, including Congress MP Hibi Eden, have publicly congratulated the rapper, many others expressed disappointment and anger, arguing that the move sends a damaging message to society. Critics have also accused feminist organisations and women’s groups of maintaining a “conspicuous silence” on the issue. Adding to the controversy, the award came just days after the Kerala High Court relaxed Vedan’s anticipatory bail conditions, allowing him to travel abroad for performances. The Thrikkakkara police have already submitted a final report on the case.
According to a police complaint filed in July 2025, a woman accused Vedan of sexual exploitation between 2021 and 2023 under the pretext of marriage. The complainant, a former medical student, alleged multiple assaults in Kozhikode and Kochi, as well as financial exploitation. Two other women have since come forward with similar allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
Vedan, 25, who began his career under the banner Voice of the Voiceless in 2020, rose to prominence for his socially conscious rap that often addresses caste-based discrimination and systemic oppression. Despite his musical acclaim, he has faced multiple controversies, including an arrest earlier this year in a narcotics case and brief detention for possessing a tiger’s tooth pendant.
The award jury, chaired by acclaimed actor Prakash Raj, has stood by its decision. The veteran actor-filmmaker described Vedan’s work as the “voice of today’s generation,” stating that the committee could not “pretend not to see the energy and struggle for survival in his songs.” “Vedan’s music embodies the dreams and frustrations of contemporary youth. Rap is the modern expression of rebellion and resilience; it deserves recognition,” Prakash said, emphasising that the panel assessed artistic merit, not personal controversies.
The CPM-led state government has also faced heat for backing Vedan, especially since he performed at an event marking the government’s fourth anniversary. While Left leaders and Congress members have defended the decision as one respecting artistic freedom, BJP and Sangh Parivar outfits have launched aggressive social media campaigns against the rapper, accusing him of spreading “divisive and violent” messages through his songs.
Supporters, however, argue that Vedan’s music challenges caste hierarchies and represents the pain and defiance of marginalised communities. They believe his art has become a symbol of rebellion against entrenched discrimination, which has made him a target of right-wing hostility.