In a world full of performances, authenticity has become rare currency: Raftaar gets real about betrayal on 'The Traitors'

Time of India

9 hours ago

One of the most popular rappers in the Indian hip-hop scene, Raftaar, is also going to be starring in the new and upcoming variety show 'The Traitor'. Hailing from Trivandrum, Kerala, the actor is well known for his multifaceted projects. From working as a music producer, lyricist, singer, rapper, and even a dancer as well as an actor! Some of his most popular songs include but are not limited to 'Morni', 'Dhaakad', 'Legacy', 'Ghana Kasoota', and 'Baby Marvaake Manegi'.
He's known for his fierce verses, high-octane stage energy, and unapologetic
authenticity
. From underground hip-hop battles to chart-topping anthems,
Raftaar
has long been a name synonymous with hustle, evolution, and self-made stardom. But recently, the rapper-singer explored a very different stage—one filled with alliances, suspicion, and strategy—as a contestant on the gripping
reality show
'
The Traitors
' on Prime Video.
In an exclusive chat with ETimes, Raftaar opens up about his time on the show, the emotional undercurrents of
betrayal
, and the real-life parallels he couldn't ignore. His words are candid, reflective, and—like his music—hit hard.
Participating in the gripping psychological game show 'The Traitors', Raftaar found himself surrounded by suspicion, strategy, and the sting of betrayal. Though his stint on the show was brief, it left a deep impact—and he's now ready to talk about it.
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'The experience, though short, was truly enriching,' he says. 'It pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me a chance to engage with people in a completely new environment. Sometimes, the shortest chapters in our lives end up teaching us the most powerful lessons.'
One of the most striking elements of 'The Traitors' is the real-time betrayal that forms the show's core. While Raftaar was aware of this going in, living through it was something else entirely.
'Even though betrayal is a known part of the format, feeling it in real time still hits hard,' he admits. 'I've always valued transparency and loyalty, and when that gets tested, it stays with you. But I get it—everyone's just trying to survive in the game in their own way. In a world full of performances, authenticity has become rare currency.'
This theme of betrayal, he reveals, isn't confined to the screen. It's something he has dealt with off-screen too, especially during his formative years in the music industry.
'There were moments when I was trying to figure things out, trusting people, building something from scratch—and some of those bonds didn't last,' he reflects. 'It hurt. But over time, I've learned that not every bond is meant to last. And that's okay. Not every closed door is a betrayal—some are actually redirections.'
During the show, Raftaar also shared space with filmmaker
Karan Johar
, who served as the host. Despite their different creative paths, Raftaar holds Karan in high regard.
'My rapport with Karan Sir has always been warm and respectful. He belongs to a different creative universe, but he's built an empire through vision and hard work. Whenever we've interacted, it's been rooted in mutual appreciation.'
Would he consider going back to the show as a wild card? The answer is a confident yes—but not for reasons one might expect.
'I'd definitely be open to it. The goal is not to impress anyone, but to approach the game with a new perspective. Once you've lived through it, your understanding evolves. And when the mind knows better, the strategy naturally shifts.'
When asked about the biggest lesson he took away from the show, Raftaar doesn't hesitate.
'To never doubt my instincts. In that house, everything is heightened—emotions, energy, suspicion. It becomes very easy to question your own judgment. But your gut rarely lies. I've learned that silence is often louder than words, especially in rooms full of whispers.'
And if he were to imagine Bollywood actors in 'The Traitors' universe?
'I wouldn't divide them into heroes and traitors,' he says thoughtfully. 'I'd look for those with depth—people who carry both calm and chaos within them. The game isn't about black and white. It's about layers. That's where the real magic lies.'
From decoding people to decoding beats, Raftaar continues to evolve—unapologetically and on his own terms. Whether on stage, in a reality show, or just in life, he proves that instincts, integrity, and individuality will always be his core rhythm.