When it comes to Indian hip‑hop and rap culture, Raftaar stands out as one of the most influential and dynamic artists of his generation. Known for his sharp lyricism, fast‑paced flow, and crossover appeal in Bollywood and independent music, Raftaar has built a remarkable career over nearly two decades. In this comprehensive blog post, we explore his life, career, personal journey, controversies, financial success, legacy, and frequently asked questions.
Indian hip‑hop has seen exponential growth over the past decade, and among the pioneers who brought this genre to mainstream attention is Raftaar. A versatile rapper, songwriter, composer, and TV personality, Raftaar’s journey from underground music circles to national fame is an inspiring story of grit, perseverance, and artistic evolution. In this article, we’ll dive deep into his biography, family background, career milestones, controversies, net worth, and lasting impact.
Biography: Early Life, Age & Family Background
Who Is Raftaar?
Raftaar was born on 16 November 1988 in Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Kerala, India. His real birth name is Kalathil Kuzhiyil Devadasan Dilin Nair, though he is widely known by his stage name Raftaar, a word that means “speed” in Hindi, reflecting his rapid rap delivery and energetic persona.
Age and Growing Up
As of 2025, Raftaar is 36 years old. His family later moved to Delhi, where he grew up and developed a love for music, dance, and rhythm. Early exposure to diverse cultures and languages shaped his eclectic musical style and helped him adapt to various music genres.
Family and Personal Life
Raftaar was born into a Malayali family. His father, K.K. Devdasan, worked with the Indian Railways, while his mother, Lalitha Nair, served as a typist. His upbringing in a supportive environment allowed him to pursue his artistic interests from a young age.
In his personal life, Raftaar’s relationships have attracted media attention. He married Komal Vohra in December 2016. The couple later divorced, with the legal separation finalized on 6 October 2022. Some reports also mention a later marriage to Manraj Jawanda in 2025, marking a new chapter in his personal life.
Career Overview: From Underground Rapper to Mainstream Star
Early Beginnings (2008–2012)
Raftaar’s music journey began in the underground hip‑hop scene, where he collaborated with friends Ikka and Lil Golu, uploading tracks that eventually caught the attention of fellow artist Yo Yo Honey Singh. This early exposure led him to work with Mafia Mundeer, a collective that provided significant early industry exposure.
He also showcased his dance talent on national television, participating in the reality show Dance India Dance (DID) in 2011, where he impressed audiences with his rhythmic skills.
Breakthrough and Mainstream Success (2012–2017)
After parting ways with Mafia Mundeer due to credit disputes, Raftaar formed a new group called The Titans with Badshah and Sachit Takkar (Sachh). This collaboration helped him gain traction in both the Punjabi and Bollywood music industries.
His 2013 single “Swag Mera Desi” with Manj Musik was a cultural phenomenon and earned him the Best Urban Song award at the Brit Asia TV Music Awards in 2014.
Later Career and Expanding Influence (2017–Present)
Raftaar continued to diversify his work, launching his own label Kalamkaar in 2017 to support emerging artists and release independent projects. He released his debut album Zero To Infinity and later Mr. Nair, cementing his role as not just a performer but also a mentor and producer.
In addition to music, Raftaar became a familiar face on Indian television, judging shows like MTV Hustle, Dance India Dance, and MTV Roadies, further increasing his reach among younger audiences.
Controversies and Criticisms
Like many public figures, Raftaar has had his share of controversies:
Credit Disputes and Feuds
One early controversy involved his split from Mafia Mundeer over credit issues, particularly around the track “Dope Shope”. Raftaar claimed he contributed significantly but was not properly credited.
Industry Beef
Raftaar’s career has also seen public disagreements with other artists, including a widely talked‑about series of diss tracks exchanged with rapper Emiway Bantai. These moments sparked industry debate about competition, artistic integrity, and commercialization in Indian hip‑hop.
Despite such controversies, Raftaar’s ability to navigate disagreements while continuing to produce successful music has kept his career momentum strong.
Net Worth and Financial Overview
Estimating the net worth of artists can vary based on sources, earnings, and assets. According to reports:
- Raftaar’s estimated net worth is around ₹80 crore (approximately $10–12 million), earned through music sales, live performances, brand endorsements, TV appearances, and his record label.
- Other sources place his net worth in the range of $3 million to $5 million, reflecting his earnings from diversified revenue streams.
Beyond music, Raftaar’s roles on television and entrepreneurial ventures contribute significantly to his financial profile.
Legacy and Significance
Raftaar’s impact on Indian music extends far beyond chart‑topping songs. He played a crucial role in popularizing desi hip‑hop, blending Indian linguistic and cultural elements with global hip‑hop styles. His journey from uploading tracks online to becoming a national figure symbolizes the transformative power of digital platforms for artists.
Furthermore, Raftaar’s influence as a mentor and producer through his label has helped shape the careers of newer artists, ensuring his legacy continues through the next generation of musicians.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old is Raftaar?
Raftaar was born on 16 November 1988, making him 36 years old in 2025.
2. What is Raftaar’s real name?
His birth name is Kalathil Kuzhiyil Devadasan Dilin Nair.
3. What is Raftaar’s net worth?
Estimates vary, but Raftaar’s net worth is generally reported at around ₹80 crore (~$10–12 million).
4. Has Raftaar won any awards?
Yes, for instance, his song “Swag Mera Desi” won Best Urban Song at the Brit Asia TV Music Awards in 2014.
5. What other roles has Raftaar done besides music?
He has worked as a music producer, composer, TV show judge, and record label founder.
6. Was Raftaar involved in any major controversies?
Yes, he has been part of credit disputes and public feuds within the music industry, which have drawn media attention.
7. Is Raftaar married?
Raftaar was previously married to Komal Vohra, with their divorce finalized in 2022; some reports note a subsequent marriage in 2025.
Conclusion
Raftaar’s journey from a budding musician in Delhi to one of India’s most recognized rappers is a testament to his talent, resilience, and adaptability. With a legacy that spans hit songs, TV fame, entrepreneurial ventures, and influence on the hip‑hop culture, Raftaar remains a defining figure in Indian entertainment. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, his story offers insight into both the struggles and triumphs of a modern music icon.
Disclaimer: This biography is compiled from publicly available information and is meant solely for informational purposes. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, certain details may vary or be open to interpretation.
