Guest Info

Manan Pandya, aka Taizu, is an Indian American rapper in the USA. His work has been award-winning, and his music deals with various issues, including identity and modern-day trials and tribulations.

About the Show

Music holds an important place in our lives, pleasuring our senses and transcending cultures and eras. In this podcast, Chief Explorer Rajan Nazran is joined by Kulvinder Ghir and Manan Pandya, also known as Taizu, an American Indian rapper who delves into the themes of identity and the challenges of modern life in his music.

He sheds light on the origins of hip hop and shares his personal experiences of being stereotyped in the industry due to his Indian heritage. He discusses the impact of cultural perceptions shaped by films like ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and the complexity of navigating multiple identities, being seen as both “ultra American” and proudly embracing Indian culture.

The conversation explores Pandya’s unique perspective on India as someone not primarily from the country and addresses the broader concept of “Indianness” beyond geographical borders. He also discusses his music style, including the element of imposed seriousness and his aim to break the stereotype of non-serious music.

Join us for this intriguing conversation as we delve into the world of music, identity, and the pursuit of breaking clichés with the talented rapper Manan Pandya. Also, do not miss out on an impromptu rap performance adding a cheerful and entertaining touch.

Produced by Global Indian Series for the Global Indian Network.
Script by Rajan Nazran
original idea: Rajan Nazran

Introduction music credit: https://freesound.org/people/DaveJf

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