Exclusive: Khushi TDT-Lashcurry on success of Victory Anthem, politics in music industry

India Today

25-05-2025

Victory Anthem had truly managed to captured hearts with the raw emotions. Made by Indian hip-hop's emerging powerhouses, Khushi TDT and Lash Curry, it managed to cut a mark in the hearts of fans and for everyone who is striving to take on the hurdles and emerge victoroius despite the speedbreakers of life. The track managed to get millions of views in a span of short time, and what's best - the explosive combo of the powerful lyrics with the grit of Khushi TDT and Lashcurry's voices.advertisementIn an exclusive interview with India Today Digital, Khushi and Lashcurry discussed the process of making the track, its success and resonance with audience across the globe. Khushi also discussed about the challenges she faced in the industry, while Lashcurry spoke about how his background in classical music helped him.Excerpts...
Victory Anthem has become a sensation. Did you ever imagine the song resonating with not just those here but everyone across the globe?Lashcurry: I never could have envisioned that a song created in such a small space with a simple setup would resonate across the globe in this way. I am profoundly grateful to everyone who contributed to making this dream a reality.Khushi: It's hard to fully explain how I feel, but seeing Victory Anthem get so much love is surreal. I used to dream of my songs reaching millions of views, imagining how it would feel when it finally happened. Now, waking up and checking YouTube first thing in the morning has become a habit, I can't wait to see the growing numbers, and it starts my day on a high note. Hitting milestones like 10 million views is incredible, but it's also a reminder that there's so much more to achieve, 50 million, 100 million, even more. It's motivating rather than satisfying; it pushes me to dream bigger. Collaborating with LashCurry made it even more special since working with him was a goal, and to see our first track together resonate like this feels amazing. It's a proud and motivating moment for me.advertisementWhat's the best compliment you received for the song?Lashcurry: The biggest accomplishment and compliment for me has to be when industry heavyweights started singing and sharing the track alike.Khushi: Everyone on social media The best compliment I received for Victory Anthem came from a fan who said, "Your words felt like a voice for my struggles—listening to your music pushes me to keep going." Knowing that my music inspires others to persevere and chase their dreams makes all the effort worth it. It's a reminder that our stories, no matter how personal, can resonate with others on a deeply emotional level.Tell us a bit about the the process of making the songLashcurry: This doesn't usually happen with me, but this track came together very quickly. Khushi sent me the track with her verse on it and explained the direction she wanted to take with it. It was already really moving and that pushed me to the studio where I wrote my heart out. I wanted to make sure the messaging we were putting forward was loud and clear.Khushi: The story behind Victory Anthem is quite simple yet special. Audiocracker sent me a beat named Victory Anthem, and one night, as I was about to sleep, I played it and it instantly sparked something in me. The first line that came to mind was, 'Rukegi kalam nahi jab tak hu zinda, marungi tab tak yeh qala hai zinda,' and that became the foundation of the song, reflecting my struggles and determination. Initially, it was a solo idea, but the next day, I thought of Lashcurry and sent him the beat. Within minutes, he agreed, created the hook in an hour, and I completed my verses the same day. The song came together in less than a day, completely unplanned and driven by pure inspiration from the beat and that one powerful line.advertisementKhushi, how easy or difficult is it for a woman to make her way into this genre, that's dominated by men? Have you faced discrimination?Khushi: Breaking into hip-hop as a woman is undeniably challenging, especially in India, where the genre has been historically male-dominated. You often have to work twice as hard to be taken seriously and avoid being boxed into stereotypes. While I haven't faced blatant discrimination, I've felt the pressure to prove myself in ways my male peers might not. But this also pushes me to excel, to show that talent and determination don't have a gender. The growing acceptance of women in hip-hop gives me hope, and I want to pave the way for more women to feel empowered to express themselves in this space.advertisementHow did winning OhoSceneChange change your life?Khushi: Winning OhoSceneChange was a turning point in my career. It gave me a platform to showcase my skills to a wider audience and connect with mentors who helped refine my craft. The exposure brought opportunities I never imagined. It showed me that staying true to my story and style could make an impact, inspiring me to aim higher and dream bigger.Lashcurry, what was your reason for joining MTV Hustle 4? Lashcurry: Hip-hop culture is still in its early stages where I come from, but there are some incredibly talented people doing amazing work. Representing my city on national television was a dream my mother always had for me, and I knew I had to make it happen!How do you feel has your background in classical music helped you get an edge over the others?Lashcurry: Undoubtedly hip-hop runs through my veins, although my roots have been classical. When I was in school, I used to play the tabla and it put me on to a lot of great stuff. Whatever I learnt there through classical music has really helped shape up a lot of what I put out as my music now.advertisementWe know that politics works everywhere, even in the field of music. How do you navigate that while keeping your spirit and the soul of your music alive?Lashcurry: I always knew that I wanted to make music for me and my people, so I always talk about the things that you or anyone would see in real life. I want to move people with my music, that's all! I know that if you only spread love around yourself and everyone else, no negative energies can ever touch you at any point in your life.Khushi: It is indeed tough to navigate politics in music, but for me, the success of Victory Anthem is a testament to staying true to our spirit and soul. We focus on the essence that resonates with our audience, spreading hope and resilience through authentic music that transcends borders and unites people. We maintain our creative freedom by being true to our roots and values, surrounding ourselves with like-minded individuals, and engaging with our audience.advertisementYour struggles are what shapes up your music. Has there been a particular incident that impacted you greatly?Lashcurry: I've had to work hard for everything in my life, which has taught me the true value of putting effort into what you believe in. My songs reflect the struggles I've witnessed and the experiences I've lived. My journey is the foundation of my music, shaping every lyric and melody.Khushi: My path to music has been a surprising yet enriching experience. Growing up in a conservative household where music was barely tolerated, I had to overcome significant obstacles to pursue my passion. From secretly honing my rap skills to discovering my true purpose through late-night writing sessions, every moment has been a turning point. Through resilience and determination, I've created music that not only reflects my values but also resonates with others. This challenging yet fulfilling journey has been instrumental in shaping me into the person I am today.You constantly aim to push the boundaries with your music. What's your next steps towards it?Lashcurry: For me, the most important thing is to stay relevant by consistently delivering great music that resonates with people.Khushi: I have several exciting solo projects in the pipeline, along with some meaningful collaborations. While I initially planned an EP, I realized I want my first big release to truly represent me, something bold and unforgettable. So, I'm now working towards an album that stands out as one of DHH's best. I'm also collaborating with artists who've been by my side since the beginning because moving forward feels better when you bring your people along. Recently, I dropped Naam with Drotolix and Som, and Warrior might be next. It's an exciting phase and I can't wait to share more.Who has been your inspiration and who do you look up to?Lashcurry: Some of my biggest inspirations are poets like Jaun Elia, Tehzeeb Hafi, and Ali Zoryoun. Their profound work has played a significant role in shaping my writing and creative process.Khushi: I admire rappers like Raja Kumari, who blends Indian heritage with global hip-hop, and DIVINE, for his storytelling and resilience. But inspiration also comes from everyday people—fans, family, and friends who've supported me through thick and thin. They remind me why I do this in the first place: to connect, inspire, and make a difference.Khushi, you are an inspiration for many women who want to achieve something for themselves despite resistance from those around. How do you constantly do it and what will be your message for those girls?Khushi: As a woman in music, I have fought against obstacles and skepticism but learned to use them to fuel my creativity and strength. To the women going through this same struggle, I'd say stay fiercely committed to your passions and visions. Remember, uniqueness and perspectives are strengths rather than weaknesses. Be strong, embrace your individuality, surround yourself with supporters, and never let anyone influence your way. Victory Anthem is a testament of persistence and strength – shine on, believing in oneself and inspiring others.