Brodha V

{{Short description|Indian rapper (born 1990)}} {{Use dmy dates|date=January 2021}} {{Use Indian English|date=August 2018}} {{Infobox person | name = Brodha V | image = Brodha V DATN.jpg | image_size = | landscape = | alt = | caption = | birth_name = Vighnesh Shivanand | birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1990|3|27}} | birth_place = Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India | occupation = {{flatlist| * Rapper * singer * songwriter * record producer * lyricist }} | years_active = 2008–present | module = {{Infobox musical artist |embed=yes | origin = Bangalore, Karnataka, India | genre = Hip hop | label = {{flatlist| * Believe Music * Sony Music India * Zee Music Company * Lahari Music * T-Series }} | associated_acts = {{plainlist| * Machas With Attitude * Benny Dayal * Vishal Dadlani * Raghu Dixit * Anirudh Ravichander * Jordindian * Raftaar }}}} }}

'''Vighnesh Shivanand''' (born 27 March 1990), better known by his stage name '''Brodha V''', is an Indian rapper, songwriter, and record producer.<ref>{{Cite web|date=26 June 2019|title=Key Takeaways from Music Inc. 2019 -|url=https://rollingstoneindia.com/key-takeaways-music-inc-2019/|access-date=28 June 2019|website=My Site}}</ref> Born in Kanchipuram, the Bengaluru-based artist started rapping at the age of 18 and took part in online rap battles on Orkut.<ref name="The times of India">{{cite news|title=Dial V for Brodha|url=http://indulge.newindianexpress.com/dial-v-for-brodha/section/59177|newspaper=The New Indian Express|access-date=15 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170820034443/http://indulge.newindianexpress.com/dial-v-for-brodha/section/59177|archive-date=20 August 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> As an independent artist, Brodha V released a mixtape called ''Deathpunch!'' which had a limited release and which garnered him some attention from the hip hop fraternity and the independent music circuit in Southern India.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |date=2018-08-16 |title=Brodha V’s ‘Shook One’ sure to shake everyone in the Hip-Hop and Rap scenes! |url=https://www.iwmbuzz.com/digital/releases-digital/brodha-vs-shook-one-sure-shake-everyone-hip-hop-rap-scenes/2018/08/16 |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=IWMBuzz |language=en}}</ref>

''Storypick'' called him "one of the best rappers in the country",{{Hair space}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.storypick.com/brodhav-best-songs/|title=This Is One Of The Best Songs I've Ever Heard From An Indian Rapper|date=26 September 2014|website=Storypick.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> and he was featured in ''ScoopWhoop''<nowiki/>'s list of top ten Indian hip-hop artists who deserve more recognition.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scoopwhoop.com/indian-underground-hip-hop-artists/|title=10 Indian Hip-Hop Artists Who Revolutionised The Music Scene But Are Still Waiting To Get Their Due|first=Rohit|last=Bhattacharya|date=15 July 2016|website=Scoopwhoop.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> ''Rolling Stone India'' considers him part of "hip-hop's elite".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://rollingstoneindia.com/recap-indian-hip-hops-big-month/|title=Voice of Tha People Recap Indian Hip Hop's Big Month |website=Rollingstoneindia.com|date=13 November 2014|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> The popularity he garnered led him to be signed by Sony Music India in 2013 and he released his single "Aigiri Nandini" under their banner.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Mohan|first=Shriya|title=Rap Nadu: How Dravidian hip-hop arrived to pack a punch|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/blink/cover/rap-nadu-how-dravidian-hip-hop-arrived-to-pack-a-punch/article28097728.ece|access-date=28 June 2019|website=Thehindubusinessline.com|date=21 June 2019 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://in.askmen.com/music/1109022/article/5-young-indian-rappers-you-should-know-about|title=5 young Indian rappers you should know about|date=23 September 2015|website=In.askmen.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> He has also collaborated with other artists in the Indian film industry such as Hiphop Tamizha, KR$NA, Raghu Dixit, Vishal Dadlani, Benny Dayal, Raftaar and Anirudh Ravichander.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1151004/jsp/graphiti/story_45805.jsp |title=Rap rage |access-date=23 June 2017 |archive-date=20 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170820114758/https://www.telegraphindia.com/1151004/jsp/graphiti/story_45805.jsp |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== Career ==

=== 2008-2012: Early beginnings and Machas with Attitude === Brodha V's initial recognition came from active participation in "text battles" on Orkut, a social media network operated by Google. In 2008, Speed Ice and D'Brassic, two Delhi-based rappers, started a forum on Orkut called Insignia Rap Combat which helped found an online space for hip-hop artists to write rap battles.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=http://www.jabong.com/juicestyle/magazine/the-rise-of-desi-hip-hop/|title=The Rise of Desi Hip Hop|last=Kappal|first=Bhanuj|year=2016|website=Jabong.com|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170819065918/https://www.jabong.com/juicestyle/magazine/the-rise-of-desi-hip-hop/|archive-date=19 August 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> After using "Battle Communities" on Orkut to gain recognition and develop a personal style, Brodha V moved on to composing his own songs.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.pepsimtvindies.com/buzz/update/how-orkut-shaped-brodha-vs-supreme-rapping-sensibilities-52192659.html|title=彩神ii_彩神ii官网登录|website=Pepsimtvindies.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref>

In 2008, he founded Machas With Attitude (MWA) with Smokey the Ghost and Big Nikk.<ref name="Deccan News">{{cite news|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/167565/high-rap-hip-hop.html|title=High on rap and hip hop|newspaper=Deccan Herald|access-date=15 May 2017}}</ref> They collaborated with Raghu Dixit and performed the song "Dheaon Dheaon" from the movie ''Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge''. As a solo artist, Brodha V released his first mixtape, ''Deathpunch!'', in 2011, for a limited audience. In 2012, his next single, "On My Own", was praised for its lyrical complexity and innate Indian quality.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Finally You Have a World Class Indian Rap That You Always Wanted to Hear &#124; ScoopPick.com |url=http://www.scooppick.com/indian-rap/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170819020504/http://www.scooppick.com/indian-rap/ |archive-date=19 August 2017 |access-date=23 June 2017}}</ref> Gaining recognition, he released the singles "Aathma Raama" and "After Party" in 2012 and 2013 respectively.

=== 2013-2015: Signing with Sony Music India and disbandment of Machas with Attitude === In 2013, Machas with Attitude won the Radio City Freedom Award and met Vishal Dadlani, who offered to have them work on the film ''Chennai Express''. This collaboration led them to compose the track "Ready Steady Po" for the film, which brought them further recognition in the music industry.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/the-beat-poets/article6185922.ece|title=The beat poets|first=Allan Moses|last=Rodricks|date=7 July 2014|access-date=17 December 2021|website=Thehindu.com}}</ref> The trio disbanded in 2013 to pursue independent careers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/machas-ready-to-rap/article5007709.ece|title=Machas, ready to rap?|first=Bhumika|last=K|date=10 August 2013|access-date=17 December 2021|website=Thehindu.com}}</ref>

In 2013, Brodha V signed with Sony Music India.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://rollingstoneindia.com/india-taking-hip-hop/|title=How India is Taking to Hip Hop -|website=rollingstoneindia.com|date=19 September 2014|access-date=9 August 2017}}</ref> He next released his single "Aigiri Nandini".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.scoopwhoop.com/inothernews/rap-classical-durga-2/|title=What Happens When You Mix Rap With A Classical Song On Goddess Durga? This!|first=Adarsh|last=Vinay|date=17 October 2014|website=Scoopwhoop.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> In 2015, he walked out on his contract with Sony Music, citing creative differences.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.radioandmusic.com/biz/music/artiste/151027-brodha-v-parts-ways-sony-music|title=Brodha V parts ways with Sony Music|website=Radioandmusic.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref>

With the intention of promoting hip-hop in India, Brodha V organized the first Indian rap cypher in Bangalore in 2014. Subsequent versions of the event were organized in Delhi and Mumbai, with upcoming rappers like DIVINE and Rawal participating in the cyphers.<ref>{{Cite news |title=The beat poets |url=http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/the-beat-poets/article6185922.ece |access-date=9 August 2017 |work=The Hindu}}</ref> As a solo artist, Brodha V worked with Anirudh Ravichander ("Why This Kolaveri Di" music director) for the song "Shake That," used in the score for ''Kaaki Sattai''.

Brodha V produced music for and rapped in "Anu Aunty – The Engineering Anthem", along with author, film maker and entrepreneur Varun Agarwal and stand-up comedians Sanjay Manaktala and Sumukhi Suresh, which parodied Iggy Azalea's "Fancy" and went viral on social media.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.radioandmusic.com/entertainment/editorial/news/anu-aunty-has-gone-viral-music-video-featuring-brodha-v-150107|title='Anu Aunty' has gone viral with a music video featuring Brodha V|access-date=9 August 2017}}</ref> A rapper who changed the face of the Indian music scene,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://edtimes.in/top-underrated-desi-hip-hop-artists-who-changed-the-face-of-indian-music-scene/|title = Top Underrated Desi Hip Hop Artists Who Changed the Face of Indian Music Scene|date = 26 June 2018}}</ref> Brodha V was also the inspiration for several prominent rappers to take up rap as a career, including DIVINE.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mid-day.com/lifestyle/culture/article/hip-hop-artists-on-how-the-genre-is-placed-at-the-moment-in-india-403955|title=Hip-hop artists on how the genre is placed at the moment in India|date=5 January 2019|website=Mid-day.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> In 2015, he collaborated with singer Benny Dayal to release the single "Round Round", which was listed as a top 10 track on Saavn. He has also produced music for jingles and anthems.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.radioandmusic.com/entertainment/editorial/news/sharing-same-space-ar-rahman-will-be-honour-brodha|title=Sharing the same space with A.R. Rahman will be an honour: Brodha V|website=Radioandmusic.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/bangalore/others/there-was-no-badtameezi/articleshow/50988069.cms|title=There was no Badtameezi!|newspaper=Bangalore Mirror|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref>

=== 2016-2019: Brand endorsements and further successes === In 2017, Brodha V collaborated with artist Sanjeev Thomas on a campaign to raise awareness for congenital heart defect using heartbeats donated by the public.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.indulgexpress.com/culture/music/2017/nov/15/watch-two-musicians-use-actual-heartbeats-to-compose-a-song-4747.html|title = WATCH: Two musicians use actual heartbeats to compose a song|website=Indulgexpress.com| date=15 November 2017 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://bestmediainfo.com/2018/09/spikes-asia-2018-propaganda-india-and-fcb-ulka-win-a-grand-prix-each-for-india/|title = Spikes Asia 2018: Propaganda India and FCB Ulka win a Grand Prix each for India|website=Bestmediainfo.com| date=28 September 2018 }}</ref> In 2018, Brodha V stirred up controversy through his song "Shook Ones- Freestyle", which uses the instrumental from American rap duo Mobb Deep's 1995 hit single "Shook Ones, Part II", as he called out artists who plagiarize content from other artists, and drew attention to the disparity in media attention given to artists from South India vs North India.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/english/music/news/brodha-v-believes-in-creating-the-trend-and-not-running-after-one/articleshow/65532448.cms|title=Brodha V believes in creating the trend and not running after one |newspaper=The Times of India|date=24 August 2018 |access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/bollywood-news/article/brodha-v-roots-for-rappers-pan-india-19696194|title=Brodha V roots for rappers pan-India|date=12 August 2018|website=Mid-day.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref><ref name=":2" /> In addition to performing shows across India, Brodha V was also invited to perform for the Music Matters festival in Singapore in 2018.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web |url=https://www.thehabitual.com/interview-indias-rap-g-brodha-v/ |title=Interview: India's Rap G, Brodha V :: Habitual &#124; Asian Street Culture, Fashion and Arts |access-date=7 January 2019 |archive-date=8 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190108050034/https://www.thehabitual.com/interview-indias-rap-g-brodha-v/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

As an ambassador for the cellphone brand OnePlus, Brodha V hosted and performed in the largest unboxing event conducted for the release of OnePlus 6T that set a Guinness World Record. Brodha V has also featured in the Bollywood movie ''Gully Boy'' directed by Zoya Akhtar.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/rap-it-like-ranveer-singh/articleshow/62061847.cms|title = Rap it like Ranveer Singh|newspaper=Mumbai Mirror}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://mumbaimirror.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/ranveer-turns-rapper-for-zoya/articleshow/52288008.cms|title=Ranveer turns rapper for Zoya|newspaper=Mumbai Mirror|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> Brodha V's collaboration with Delhi-based rapper Raftaar titled "Naachne Ka Shaunq" shot him to fame in mainstream Hindi media in 2019. The track was later included in Raftaar's sophomore album, ''Mr. Nair.''<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/have-you-checked-out-the-new-hip-hop-song-naachne-ka-shaunq-1502733392.html|title = Have you checked out new hip-hop song Naachne Ka Shaunq?|website=Thestatesman.com|date = 19 February 2019}}</ref> In the same year, Brodha V collaborated with athletic company Puma to promote underground music and hip-hop culture in India.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.platform-mag.com/music/asli-hip-hop-brodha-v.html|title=Brodha V|website=Platform-mag.com|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indulgexpress.com/culture/music/2019/mar/29/hey-big-brodha-v-rap-star-from-bengaluru-jams-for-street-culture-with-puma-13747.html|title=Hey, big Brodha V! Rap star from Bengaluru jams for street culture with Puma|website=Indulgexpress.com|date=29 March 2019 |access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> In 2019, Brodha V also released his first ever Kannada rap song, which was his rendition of the song "Maari Kannu" from the 1998 cult classic film ''A''.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/music/brodha-vs-first-kannada-rap-is-a-rendition-of-maari-kannu/articleshow/68937436.cms|title=Brodha V's first Kannada rap is a rendition of Maari Kannu|newspaper=The Times of India|date=18 April 2019 |access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> In the music video, he questioned Indian society and asks everyone to introspect their values.<ref name="auto1" />

As a veteran in the Indian rap industry, Brodha V was a guest judge on the Indian rap reality TV show ''MTV Hustle'' where he also performed his latest single "Vaishnava Jana To" in the finale. In the socio-political anthem "Vaishnava Jana To" released in October 2019,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/music/brodha-v-is-set-to-release-his-version-of-vaishnav-jana-to-this-october/articleshow/71392248.cms|title=Brodha V is set to release his version of Vaishnav Jana To, this October|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=14 October 2019}}</ref> Brodha V delivered his rendition of the Gandhian bhajan using a unique boom bap sound. The song's lyrics, in line with Mahatma Gandhi's vision of peace and unity, talked about keeping aside differences and looking past religious and cultural backgrounds.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Brodha V is set to release his version of Vaishnav Jana To, this October - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/music/brodha-v-is-set-to-release-his-version-of-vaishnav-jana-to-this-october/articleshow/71392248.cms |access-date=2022-09-10 |website=The Times of India |date=2 October 2019 |language=en}}</ref> Brodha V also released "Vainko", a collaboration with Bangalore-based YouTubers Jordindian, which instantly went viral and led to the "Vainko Challenge".<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2019/nov/28/its-a-rap-new-single-goes-viral-on-day-one-2068072.html|title=It's a rap! New single goes viral on day one|website=The New Indian Express|date=28 November 2019 |access-date=2 December 2019}}</ref>

=== 2020-present: Injury, collaboration with KR$NA === In 2020, Brodha V released "Flex" that features Punjabi tunes.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Homegrown|title=Homegrown's Fresh Picks From Music That Released Last Week|url=https://homegrown.co.in/article/804999/homegrowns-fresh-picks-from-music-that-released-last-week|access-date=14 December 2020|website=homegrown.co.in|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bengaluru-based rapper Brodha V's latest single 'Flex' may make to a New Year party mix |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/hindi/2020/dec/22/bengaluru-based-rapper-brodha-vslatest-singleflex-may-make-to-a-new-year-party-mix-2239320.html |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=The New Indian Express|date=22 December 2020 }}</ref> Two months later, in February 2021, Brodha V released "Aaraam", his second Kannada track.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-02-19|title=ಅಲ್ಲೇನು ಆರಾಮಾ? ಯೋಗಕ್ಷೇಮ ವಿಚಾರಿಸಲು ಬಂದ್ರು ಬ್ರೋಧಾ ವಿ!– News18 Kannada|url=https://kannada.news18.com/news/entertainment/brodha-v-aaraam-kannada-rap-song-release-on-youtube-hg-531579.html|access-date=2021-02-19|website=News18 Gujarati|language=kn}}</ref> While speaking about "Aaraam" in an interview with ''Mid-Day'', Brodha V stated that releasing songs in regional languages "lets him reach out to new listeners".<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-02-15|title=Brodha V: Commercial rap is still manufactured|url=https://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/music-news/article/brodha-v-commercial-rap-is-still-manufactured-23159847|access-date=2021-02-19|website=Mid-day.com|language=en}}</ref> Following an injury that set him back during the pandemic, Brodha V released "All Divine" that featured Malayalam lyrics, in February 2022. The song featured singer Steve Knight from Flipsyde and the lyrics focused on Brodha V's "past mental health struggles, the pandemic-enforced isolation and most recently, a torn ligament."<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-02-09 |title=Brodha V Scales a New Peak of Self-Discovery in 'All Divine' Video |url=https://rollingstoneindia.com/brodha-v-all-divine-video/ |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=Rolling Stone India |language=en-US}}</ref>

In August 2022, Brodha V released Bujjima that features Indian digital content creator Niharika NM in the music video.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Rapper Brodha V releases new single 'Bujjima' starring Niharika NM |url=https://www.indulgexpress.com/culture/music/2022/sep/03/rapper-brodha-v-releases-new-single-bujjima-starring-niharika-nm-43659.html |access-date=2022-09-10 |website=www.indulgexpress.com |date=3 September 2022 |language=en}}</ref> In September 2022, Brodha V collaborated with KR$NA and released their much awaited track "Forever" where the two rappers showcased their penmanship.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Brodha V collaborates with KRSNA, drops new single 'Forever' - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/kannada/music/brodha-v-collaborates-with-krsna-drops-new-single-forever/articleshow/94110566.cms |access-date=2022-09-10 |website=The Times of India |date=10 September 2022 |language=en}}</ref> The song won them the Radio City Freedom Award for the Best Indie Collaboration in 2023.<ref>{{cite web |title=Radio City Freedom Awards (RCFA) 7 Winners |url=https://www.radiocity.in/rcfa |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230510030328/https://www.radiocity.in/rcfa |archive-date=10 May 2023 |access-date=14 May 2023 |publisher=Radio City Freedom Awards}}</ref> Following the success of Vainko, Brodha V collaborated with comedic duo Jordindian again in 2023 to release "Basti Bounce" which is touted as the successor for Vainko.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bouncing back with a bang |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bengaluru/2023/jan/18/bouncingback-with-a-bang-2538811.html |access-date=2023-01-24 |website=The New Indian Express|date=18 January 2023 }}</ref>

In May 2023, Brodha V released his first love song "Azhage" which he stated was a personal challenge to channel deep emotions to expand on his versatility.<ref name="auto3">{{cite web | url=https://epaper.deccanherald.com/Home/ShareArticle?OrgId=246a19c3119&imageview=0 | title=The big Brodha of rap }}</ref> In March 2024, Brodha V performed at the Royal Challengers Bangalore Unbox event at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. In December 2024, he released "Dance Away the Night (DATN)", in collaboration with fellow rapper Paal Dabba with a combination of Tamil and English rap lyrics, that addressed the trials and tribulations both artists have faced in their respective careers. In an interview discussing the shoot for DATN with ''The Indian Express'''s lifestyle paper Indulge, Brodha V shared his background education in filmmaking and talked about his work behind the camera exploring video direction.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Soji |first=Alwin Benjamin |date=2024-12-06 |title=Be your own biggest fan ever: Brodha V |url=https://www.indulgexpress.com/culture/music/2024/Dec/06/be-your-own-biggest-fan-ever-brodha-v |access-date=2025-01-14 |website=Indulgexpress |language=en}}</ref>

Shortly after, in January 2025, Brodha V released his third Kannada track "Hengaithe Maige", garnering a lot of attention in Karnataka and South India.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Tagat |first=Anurag |date=2025-01-27 |title=Brodha V Drops New Kannada Song 'Hengaithe Maige' |url=https://rollingstoneindia.com/brodha-v-hengaithe-maige-song-video/ |access-date=2025-01-30 |website=Rolling Stone India |language=en-US}}</ref> His second release for the year, "OM", that features the Gayatri Mantra chant received significant attention domestically as well as internationally. In this track, Brodha V shows his journey from his younger days to now and is his most intimate and self-reflective track to date.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ferreira |first=Verus |title=Musicunplugged.in Trade News: Brodha V drops new single ‘OM’ reviving Aathma Raama nostalgia |url=https://www.musicunplugged.in/news/trade_news_info/3195/0 |access-date=2025-08-20 |website=www.musicunplugged.in |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=India |first=Rolling Stone |date=2025-08-12 |title=All The New Music Releases To Know This Week |url=https://rollingstoneindia.com/wazir-patar-mary-ann-alexander-dhanji-reble-new-music-releases-this-week/ |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Rolling Stone India |language=en-US}}</ref> In December 2025, Brodha V released a track titled "Underrated", in collaboration with Def Jam India.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sangeetha |first=P. |date=2026-01-02 |title=Rapper Brodha V on his latest single Underrated, and his take on hip-hop, culture and power |url=https://www.indulgexpress.com/culture/music/2026/Jan/02/rapper-brodha-on-his-latest-album-underrated-and-his-take-on-hip-hop-culture-and-power |access-date=2026-02-02 |website=Indulgexpress |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4P4Iee1WaAc |title=Brodha V - UNDERRATED [Official Music Video] {{!}} Def Jam India |date=2025-12-11 |last=Brodha V |access-date=2025-12-17 |via=YouTube}}</ref>

== Etymology behind the stage name == Brodha V revealed in an interview to Raaj Jones<ref>{{Cite web|title=BRODHA V - X- CLUSIVE & RARE INTERVIEW BY RAAJ JONES (PART-1)| date=13 October 2018 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpx9reHNJgk|via=YouTube|language=en|access-date=2021-03-11}}</ref> that his stage name, Brodha V is derived from two elements, the first fragment stands for brotherhood, while the second stands for his real name, Vighnesh.

== Musical style == Brodha V's style is a blend of hip-hop, Hindustani classical, Carnatic classical and Indian folk music. Most of his work is delivered in common language, drawn from his own personal experiences.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/577544/my-music-has-always-talked.html |title='My music has always talked about my state of mind' &#124; Deccan Herald |access-date=23 June 2017 |archive-date=13 August 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180813111753/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/577544/my-music-has-always-talked.html |url-status=dead }}</ref>

== Influences == Brodha V mentions the song "Pettai Rap", composed by A. R. Rahman for the Tamil film ''Kaadhalan'', as his introduction to rap music.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://desihiphop.com/exclusive-interview-brodha-v/032000|title=Exclusive Interview With Brodha V – Desi Hip Hop|date=21 November 2013|work=Desi Hip Hop|access-date=8 August 2017}}</ref> He also cites early '90s East coast rappers Eminem, Rakim, Nas, Big Pun, Wu-Tang Clan and Jay-Z as his inspiration and role models.<ref name="auto"/> As a producer, he refers to Timbaland, Pharrell Williams and Quincy Jones for inspiration.<ref name="auto3"/>

== Discography ==

=== Mixtapes ===

* ''Deathpunch!'' (2011)<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Tagat |first=Anurag |date=April 18, 2018 |title=Brodha V: ‘People Should Recognize Me Wherever I Go’ |url=https://rollingstoneindia.com/brodha-v-people-recognize-wherever-go/ |access-date=December 26, 2025 |website=Rolling Stone India}}</ref>

===Singles & collaborations=== {| class="wikitable" !Year !Track !Artist(s) !Producer(s) !Note(s) |- | rowspan="2" |2012 |On My Own |Brodha V ft. Avinash Bhat | | |- |Aathma Raama | rowspan="2" |Brodha V | |Was previously released as a part of his debut demo mixtape ''Deathpunch!''<ref name=":0" /> |- |2013 |After Party | | |- | rowspan="2" |2014 |Roobaroo - Micromax Unite Anthem |Swaroop Khan, Kamal Khan, Benny Dayal, Raghu Dixit, Apeksha Dandekar, Shruti Pathak, Neeti Mohan, Sanam Puri, Brodha V & Voctronica |Dub Sharma | |- |Aigiri Nandini | rowspan="2" |Brodha V | | |- |2015 |Indian Flava (Live version) | | |- |2016 |Round Round |Brodha V ft. Benny Dayal | | |- |2017 |Let Em Talk | rowspan="4" |Brodha V | | |- | rowspan="3" |2018 |Way Too Easy | | |- |Shook Ones Freestyle | | |- |Young and Restless | |Promotional track for Spykar Jeans |- | rowspan="5" |2019 |Naachne Ka Shaunq |Raftaar ft. Brodha V |Tom Enzy |From the album ''Mr. Nair'' by Raftaar |- |Maari Kannu |Brodha V, Sukruth Mallesh & Guru Kiran | | |- |Silk Board Shuffle |Brodha V | |Promotional track for NBA India |- |Vaishnava Jana To |Brodha V ft. Aishwarya Rangarajan | | |- |Vainko | Brodha V and Jordindian | | |- | rowspan="2" |2020 |Whoa (The Passioneering Anthem) |Brodha V | |- |Flex |Brodha V | |- | rowspan="2" |2021 |Aaraam |Brodha V | |- |Booyah For Your City! |Ikka, Brodha V, Cizzy, StreetViolater & Kidshot | |Promotional track for Garena Free Fire India |- | rowspan="3" |2022 |All Divine |Brodha V & Steve Knight | | |- |Bujjima |Brodha V |Bharath MD | |- |Forever |Brodha V ft. KR$NA |Tone Jonez | |- | rowspan="3"|2023 |Basti Bounce | Brodha V and Jordindian | | |- |Azhage |Brodha V |Brodha V |- |Moodu |Brodha V |Vighnesh S, Manaswi Gundi | |- |2024 |Dance Away The Night (DATN) |Brodha V ft. Paal Dabba |Vighnesh S. | |- |2025 |Hengaithe Maige |Brodha V |Vighnesh S. | |- |2025 |OM |Brodha V |Vighnesh S. | |- |2025 |Underrated |Brodha V |Vighnesh S. | |}

===Film music=== {| class="wikitable" !Year !Film !Song !Language |- |2010 |''Nil Gavani Sellathey'' |Vanavillum |Tamil |- |2011 |''Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge'' |Dheaon Dheaon |rowspan="2" |Hindi |- |2013 |''Chennai Express'' |Ready Steady Po |- |2015 |''Kaaki Sattai'' |Shake That |Tamil |- |2018 |''Krishnarjuna Yudham'' |Turn This Party Up |rowspan="2" |Telugu |- |2019 |''Jersey'' |Padhe Padhe |- |2024 |''Kadaisi Ulaga Por'' |I am a Beast |English, Tamil |}

== Awards and nominations == * Radio City Freedom Awards 2013: Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist – ("Indian Flava") – Winner (Judge's Choice Award)<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.radiocity.in/rcfa/past-winners/2013/6|title= Radio City Freedom Awards |website=Radiocity.in|access-date=8 August 2017}}</ref> * Radio City Freedom Awards 2014: Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist – ("After Party") – Nominated<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.radioandmusic.com/biz/music/live/event-management/music-ultimate-winner-radio-city-freedom-awards-2014-141206|title=Music is the ultimate winner with Radio City Freedom Awards 2014|website=Radioandmusic.com|access-date=8 August 2017}}</ref> * Vh1 Sound Nation Awards 2014 – Best Hip Hop Act – Nominated<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thewildcity.com/EN/news.xhtml/article/5653-nominees-for-vh1-sound-nation-awards-announced|title=- Wild City|website=Thewildcity.com|access-date=8 August 2017}}</ref> * Radio City Freedom Awards 2015: Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist – (Indian Rap Cypher/"Aigiri Nandini") – Nominated<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://bestmediainfo.com/2016/02/the-3rd-edition-of-radio-city-freedom-awards-honours-independent-music/|title=The 3rd edition of Radio City Freedom Awards honours independent music|website=Bestmediaifo.com|access-date=8 August 2017}}</ref> * GIMA 2015: Best Music Debut Non-Film ("Aigiri Nandini") – Nominated<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gima.co.in/oty-non-film-music-nominees.php?y=2015|title=GIMA » Over The Years|website=Gima.co.in|access-date=8 August 2017}}</ref> * Renault Free the Music Award 2015 for Contribution to Independent Music – Winner<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.musicmalt.com/2015/04/renault-free-the-music-award-2015.html|title=Renault Free The Music Award – honoring the best in music industry|website=Musicmalt.com|date=28 April 2015 |access-date=8 August 2017}}</ref> *Radio City Freedom Awards 2016 : Best Indie Collaboration of the Year – ("Round Round") – Nominated<ref name="auto2">{{Cite web |url=https://www.radiocity.in/rcfa/ |title=Radio City Freedom Awards 6 &#124; Independent Artist Awards for Indie Artists &#124; Celebrating Independent Music across all Genres & Languages |access-date=3 April 2019 |archive-date=3 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403193706/https://www.radiocity.in/rcfa/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> *Radio City Freedom Awards 2018: Best Hip Hop Artist of the Year (Jury Award)- Let em Talk<ref name="auto2"/> *Radio City Freedom Awards 2018: Best Hip Hop Artist of the Year (Jury Award)- Way Too Easy<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestatesman.com/entertainment/radio-city-freedom-awards-6-honours-stars-indie-music-1502742559.html|title=Radio City Freedom Awards 6 Honours Stars of Indie Music|website=Thestatesman.com|date=2 April 2019|access-date=17 December 2021}}</ref> *Radio City Freedom Awards 2023: Best Hip Hop Collaboration of the Year - Forever ft. KRSNA<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.radiocity.in/rcfa|title=Radio City Freedom Awards (RCFA) 7 Winners|publisher=Radio City Freedom Awards|access-date=14 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230510030328/https://www.radiocity.in/rcfa|archive-date=10 May 2023|url-status=live}}</ref> *The CLEF Music Awards 2023: Best regional song/album Tamil - Basti Bounce<ref>{{Cite web |title=CMA 2023 |url=https://www.radioandmusic.com/clefmusicawards/cma2023/winner.html |access-date=2025-02-08 |website=www.radioandmusic.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Sonu Nigam wins Three Awards for Hanuman Chalisa Song at The Clef Music Awards 2023 |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/business/business/sonu-nigam-wins-three-awards-for-hanuman-chalisa-song-at-the-clef-music-awards-202320230711163802/ |access-date=2025-02-08 |website=ANI News |language=en}}</ref>

== References == {{reflist}}

== External links == {{Commons category}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Brodha V}} Category:Indian rappers Category:1990 births Category:Living people Category:Musicians from Bengaluru Category:Bishop Cotton Boys' School alumni Category:Musicians from Kanchipuram district Category:21st-century Indian rappers