Description
Vivian Wilson Fernandes, better known by his stage name Divine, is a trailblazing Indian rapper, songwriter, and music producer who revolutionized the underground rap culture of India. Born on October 2, 1990, in Andheri, Mumbai, Divine rose from the streets to global stardom, becoming one of the most recognized names in South Asian hip-hop. His music reflects the struggles, dreams, and resilience of Mumbai’s inner-city youth, blending Hindi, English, and street slang in a raw yet poetic way.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Divine grew up in the slums of Mumbai, where he found inspiration in the challenges of urban life. He began his musical journey by writing verses that depicted the harsh realities of his neighborhood. His breakout came with the viral hit “Yeh Mera Bombay” (2013), which showcased his lyrical talent and authentic storytelling.
Soon after, Divine gained massive recognition with “Mere Gully Mein”, a collaboration with rapper Naezy, which became a turning point for Indian hip-hop. The song’s success not only popularized the term “Gully Rap” but also inspired the Bollywood film Gully Boy (2019), loosely based on Divine’s life and rise in the industry.
Career and Achievements
Divine’s music is deeply rooted in real-life issues — from poverty and inequality to personal success and ambition. He co-founded Gully Gang Entertainment, a record label aimed at promoting new and independent hip-hop talent in India.
In 2019, he released his debut studio album “Kohinoor”, followed by hits like “Punya Paap” (2020) and “Gunehgar” (2022). Divine became the first Indian rapper to perform at the Grammys Global Spin and has collaborated with international artists such as Nas, Russ, and Central Cee.
His achievements include multiple awards from MTV, Mirchi Music, and Rolling Stone India, cementing his legacy as the face of Indian hip-hop.
Musical Style and Influence
Divine’s rap combines elements of hip-hop, trap, and desi rap, often layered with Indian street sounds and multilingual lyrics. His songs capture the pulse of modern India — proud, fearless, and unapologetically real. His influence extends beyond music, inspiring a new generation of independent artists to rise from the “gullies” of India and share their truth.
