Kozhikode: A storm is brewing over Calicut University’s decision to include rapper Vedan’s (Hiran Das Murali) song “Bhoomi Njaan Vaazhunnidam” in its BA Malayalam third-semester syllabus. BJP Syndicate member A.K. Anuraj has strongly protested the move, claiming Vedan is a “self-admitted drug user” and an unsuitable role model for students.
In a letter to Vice-Chancellor Dr. P. Ravindran, Anuraj raised serious objections, citing Vedan’s alleged arrest in the past for possessing narcotics and tiger teeth. He further pointed out that several of the rapper’s videos showcase alcohol use, accusing the artist of glamorizing substance abuse and reckless behavior.
“The inclusion of such a figure in the syllabus could mislead students and encourage unhealthy lifestyle choices,” Anuraj warned, urging the university to replace Vedan’s work with contributions from more “responsible and inspiring” artists.
The controversial song is part of a comparative study module alongside Michael Jackson’s “They Don’t Care About Us,” aiming to analyze global and regional expressions of protest music. Video links for both tracks have been provided to students for academic analysis.
Adding to the debate, Vedan’s songs are also featured in the fourth-semester English syllabus at Kannur University under the theme of popular culture.
The controversy has reignited a larger conversation around the boundaries of academic freedom, pop culture, and the influence of public figures on young minds.
