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Raftaar: From Dancer to Rap Superstar

Raftaar
Image Source: Social Media Account

Table of Contents

Personal Details

AttributeDetails
Full NameDilin Nair
Stage NameRaftaar
Date of BirthNovember 16, 1988
Age35 years (2024)
BirthplaceTrivandrum, Kerala
NationalityIndian
EducationBachelor of Computer Application
EthnicityMalayali
Height5’8″
ReligionHindu

Family Information

RelationDetails
FatherK.K Devdasan (Indian Railways employee)
MotherLalitha Nair (typist)
Marital StatusDivorced
Ex-WifeKomal Vohra (2016-2022)

Early Life and Background

Born as Dilin Nair in Trivandrum, Kerala, Raftaar grew up in Delhi in modest circumstances. His father worked as a cleaner with Indian Railways while his mother was a typist. The family’s first home was a one-room apartment in Munirka, Delhi, where they shared kitchen and toilet facilities with six other families.

His early years were challenging, marked by frequent bullying in school due to his economic circumstances. This led to him changing schools six times, attending institutions including:

  • Mount Abu Public School, New Delhi
  • Sachdeva Public School, Rohini
  • Shiva Shiksha Sadan, Sonipat

Musical Journey

Discovery of Hip-Hop

Raftaar’s life changed in Class IX when a friend gave him a CD containing songs by Eminem and Linkin Park. This introduction to hip-hop resonated with his natural sense of rhyme and sharp mind, providing him an artistic outlet for his experiences.

Early Career (2008-2012)

  • Started recording songs with Lil Golu and Young Amli (now Ikka)
  • Joined Mafia Mundeer group with Yo Yo Honey Singh
  • Worked as a dance teacher earning Rs. 150 per student
  • Participated in Dance India Dance as “Max” with partner Manik

Breakthrough (2013-2016)

  • Released “Swag Mera Desi” with Manj Musik in 2013
  • Won Best Urban Song at Brit Asia TV Music Awards 2014
  • Participated in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 8 (2015)
  • Signed with Zee Music Company in 2016

Professional Achievements

Awards

  • 2014: Best Urban Song (Britasia Music Awards)
  • 2016: Best Music Director (PTC Punjabi Music Awards)
  • 2016: Best Club Song of The Year (PTC Punjabi Music Awards)
  • 2018: Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Award

Notable Albums and EPs

  • Zero to Infinity (2018)
  • Mr. Nair (2020)
  • BAR’ISH EP (2020-21)
  • HARD DRIVE Vol. 1 (2022)

Acting Career

In 2023, Raftaar made his acting debut with “Bajao,” a musical comedy series on JioCinema. The show follows three filmmakers navigating the Punjabi pop music world after being entrusted with Rs. 2 crore for a music video.

Personal Life

Marriage and Divorce

Raftaar married interior designer Komal Vohra in 2016. However, the couple filed for divorce in June 2022 after six years of marriage.

Interests and Hobbies

  • Traveling
  • Gym workouts
  • Dance
  • Music composition
  • Car collection (owns Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Lamborghini)

Musical Style and Impact

Language Versatility

Despite being Malayali, Raftaar learned Punjabi, Haryanvi, and Hindi while growing up in Delhi. This multicultural background influences his music, allowing him to connect with diverse audiences.

Collaborations

Has worked with numerous artists across industries:

  • Manj Musik
  • Vishal Dadlani
  • KR$NA
  • Deep Kalsi
  • Salim Merchant

Legacy and Influence

Raftaar has evolved from a background dancer to one of India’s most successful rappers. His journey represents the growth of Indian hip-hop, bridging regional and linguistic barriers while maintaining authenticity in his art.

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