Malayalam rapper Vedan booked for rape after doctor files complaint
text_fields
Kochi: Popular Malayalam rapper Hirandas Murali, widely known as Vedan, has been accused of rape by a woman doctor in Kerala, prompting police in Kochi to register a case and initiate a preliminary investigation.
A senior police official in Kochi confirmed to the media on Thursday that an FIR has been registered against Vedan based on a complaint filed by the doctor. The officer added that a probe is currently underway and appropriate legal action will follow as the investigation progresses. The case also involves financial transactions between the two individuals.
According to the official, no notice has yet been served to Vedan. "It has come to our attention that a few other people were aware of what took place between the complainant and the accused. We will question those individuals as well. For now, we have recorded the woman’s statement," he said.
The complaint was lodged at the Thrikakkara police station at around 8 p.m. on Wednesday. In her statement, the complainant alleged that she was sexually exploited by Vedan on five separate occasions between 2021 and 2023, in locations including Kozhikode, Kochi, and a friend’s residence. She claimed that Vedan had promised to marry her, which led her to consent to the relationship while she was still a medical student.
She also stated that the two lived together for a short period. Regarding financial matters, she alleged that in 2021, when Vedan was preparing to release his first music album and lacked sufficient funds, she gave him Rs 15,000 on two occasions. Additionally, she said she financed his train travel by giving him Rs 8,300.
The two had first connected via social media. The relationship reportedly ended in 2023 when Vedan informed her he was no longer interested in continuing, leading to emotional distress for the complainant. She stated that after the breakup, she tried to contact him but was unsuccessful.
Reacting to the allegations, Vedan’s brother said the family was unaware of the situation and that Vedan had not visited their home in a while. He added that the family would also seek legal recourse.
Vedan rose to prominence through his rap performances under the banner 'Voice of the Voiceless'. He began his rap career in 2020 and quickly gained popularity, contributing lyrics to notable Malayalam films such as 'Nayattu', 'Karam', and 'Manjummel Boys'. His music earned him a significant fan base.
This is not the first time Vedan has faced legal trouble. In April, he and eight others were arrested following a narcotics raid at his rented apartment in Kaniyampuzha. He was later released on bail. Additionally, he was taken into custody by Kerala Forest officials after a tooth found on a necklace he wore was identified as a tiger’s tooth. He was released after questioning.
With IANS inputs
