The Rise of Christian Rap in India: A New Voice for Faith and Protest
When Varsha and Shein first discovered rap, they were teenagers inspired by mainstream artists like India artists Honey Singh and Raftaar. Their schoolmates loved their performances of secular rap. As daughters of a pastor, they soon felt a calling to use their musical talents differently.
"In 2012, our rap journey started,” Shein said. “We performed at school events, local meetings and in churches, and people loved it.”
Over the years, their music evolved into something deeper — a fusion of hip-hop and Christianity — aimed at inspiring young Christians.
“We know our vision. God has chosen us for Gospel hip-hop,” Varsha added. “We faced criticism, but we didn’t stop because we believe in our purpose,” she said.
Their first major Christian rap song, “Yeshu Naam Rap,” was released as a track in 2018. When listeners demanded a visual component, they re-released it as “Kyun Darna Rap” in 2023.
“Some people disliked it, saying rap isn’t for girls,” Shein added. “But we ignored the negativity and continued our mission.”
Faith, resistance and rap as a form of protest
Christian rap in India is not just about music, it’s also about resistance. With increasing persecution against Christians in India, gospel hip-hop has become a tool of both faith and protest.
“Our lyrics are deeply influenced by the Bible,” Varsha said. “Both of us have completed a bachelor of theology and are now pursuing a master’s in \divinity. We always focus on biblical messages in our rap.”
Yet, their work is not always welcomed.
“People say faith and rap don’t mix,” Shein said. “But we show them the testimonies of young people who changed their lives through our songs—drug addicts, sex workers, alcoholics, depressed youth. Many listen, accept the message, and transform their lives.”
Despite the backlash, the duo said they remain committed to their work.
“We know we’re not doing anything wrong,” Varsha added. “We are glorifying God, and that’s what matters.”
Joel Salvi, another prominent name in India’s Christian rap scene, has played a significant role in the movement. He has gained a strong following with his hard-hitting lyrics and commitment to spreading the gospel through hip-hop. His song “Yoddha” became a viral hit, striking a chord with young Christians and churchgoers alike.
“Hip-hop is the language of the youth,” Salvi said. “Through rap, we can reach people who might never step into a church but will listen to a song that speaks their language."
His debut album, “Repent,” released in 2023, was embraced globally by Christian listeners, further cementing the genre’s presence in India.
Social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram have played a vital role in amplifying the reach of Christian rap in India.
“Without digital platforms, we wouldn’t have been able to connect with so many people,” Shein said. “Our music is no longer confined to our local churches — it is reaching people in different states and even outside India.”
The future of Christian rap
Varsha and Shein are not alone — and it’s resonating with young Christians across the country.
“Our vision is to elevate gospel hip hop in India,” Shein said. “Right now, many still don’t accept rap as a legitimate form of worship, but we believe that will change in the coming years.”
For many young Christians across India, this new take on rap represents more than just music — it is a way to find identity, inspiration and a means to stand firm in their faith amidst societal challenges.
“When we hear from people who have found hope and faith through our music, it reminds us why we do this,” Varsha added. “The testimonies of transformation are our biggest motivation.”
However, Christian rap in India is still in its early stages, but it is rapidly gaining momentum. As the genre continues to grow, it also faces challenges, including criticism from traditionalists, resistance from some communities and the ever-present struggle to be taken seriously in the country’s music industry.
But with passionate artists leading the charge — supported by a growing community of young believers — Christian rap is set to become a powerful cultural force.
“We stay motivated because of the life-changing testimonies we hear from our listeners,” Varsha said. “We’ve faced challenges from the beginning, but the biggest thing is that we are serving God.”
Rishabh Jain is an independent journalist based in Delhi. Follow him at @ThisIsRjain.