Vivian Wilson Fernandes, better known by his stage name Divine, is a pioneering Indian rapper and songwriter, widely regarded for his influence in bringing Indian hip-hop into the mainstream. Born on 2 October 1990, Divine’s lyrics are deeply rooted in his experiences growing up in the chawls of Mumbai, often highlighting themes of street life, struggles, and aspirations. He began gaining popularity in 2013 with the release of his single "Yeh Mera Bombay," but his major breakthrough came in 2015 with "Mere Gully Mein," a track that featured fellow Mumbai-based rapper Naezy. This song became a national anthem for many and solidified Divine's position in the Indian hip-hop scene.
In 2020, Divine made history by becoming the first Indian rapper to be featured on the Spotify Times Square billboard in New York City, promoting his album Punya Paap, which also reached the top spot on Apple Music India. His international recognition grew further when he became the first Indian hip-hop artist to attend the 64th Annual Grammy Awards in 2022.
Divine's third studio album, Gunehgar, was released in 2022, preceded by the hit single "Baazigar," featuring American rapper Armani White. Following this, Divine collaborated with Punjabi singer Karan Aujla on a multi-track album, continuing to expand his influence in both the Indian and global music scenes. Divine’s impact on hip-hop in India is undeniable, and he remains one of the most influential figures in the genre.
