Badshah / From IAS Aspirant to Rap King: The Unfolding Journey of Badshah

Rapper Badshah's journey began with a dream of becoming an IAS officer but pivoted to music after a pivotal 1500-rupee performance at age 15. His career, marked by an early association with Honey Singh and subsequent differences, soared with hits like 'Bad Boy' and 'Genda Phool', establishing him as a music icon.

The life of Badshah, one of the most successful singers and rappers in the music industry today, is a testament to an unexpected turn of fate, while his childhood aspirations were far removed from the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world, yet destiny guided him onto a path where he would eventually reign supreme. His journey to stardom has been marked by early struggles, a significant name change, and even a notable rift with a former collaborator.

The Dream of Becoming an IAS Officer

Aditya Prateek Singh Sisodia, known to the world as Badshah, harbored a keen interest in music during his school days. However, the idea of pursuing a career as a professional singer was far from his mind. His primary ambition as a child was to become an IAS (Indian Administrative Service) officer, a highly prestigious and sought-after government position in India. This aspiration highlights his initial inclination towards a career in academics and public service rather than the arts. It was a common dream for many young Indians, and Badshah. Was no exception, aiming for a path that promised stability and influence.

A Pivotal Performance and a Life-Changing Decision

A significant turning point in Badshah's life occurred when he was just 15 years old. He performed for the very first time at a club in Delhi, while this experience was novel for him, and for his performance, he earned 1,500 rupees. This modest sum was more than just payment; it was a revelation, a tangible sign that a career in music wasn't only possible but could also be financially rewarding, while this moment proved to be the catalyst that prompted him to make a monumental decision about his future. It was the precise juncture where he chose to pivot away from his IAS aspirations and embark on a journey into the world of music, fundamentally altering the trajectory of his life.

From 'Cool Equal' to 'Badshah'

In the nascent stages of his career, Badshah performed under the moniker 'Cool Equal'. This was his initial stage name, but he later decided to adopt a new identity. His inspiration came from the 1999 Shah Rukh Khan-starrer film 'Badshah', an action-comedy that left a significant impression on him. Being a huge fan of Shah Rukh Khan, he decided to embrace the name 'Badshah' as a tribute to the actor and the film, while this new name not only resonated with his burgeoning persona but also provided him with a strong, memorable identity that would prove crucial to his career's success, helping him stand out in a competitive industry.

The Mafia Mundeer Era and Collaboration with Honey Singh

Badshah's professional journey officially commenced in 2006. During this period, he became an integral part of the rap crew 'Mafia Mundeer', alongside fellow rapper Honey Singh. 'Mafia Mundeer' was conceived as a platform designed to provide emerging artists with an opportunity to showcase their talent and establish a foothold within the music industry. Under the banner of this crew, Badshah collaborated with Honey Singh on several songs, gaining initial recognition and honing his musical skills. This phase was crucial for his development, allowing him to refine his artistry and forge connections within the industry.

Internal Strife and Lingering Differences

However, Badshah's association with Honey Singh and 'Mafia Mundeer' wasn't destined to remain harmonious. Over time, internal strife began to brew within the crew and between Badshah and Honey Singh themselves. A primary point of contention arose from Badshah's stance of never crediting Honey Singh for the initiation of his career, despite their collaborative work. This disagreement led to long-standing differences between the two artists, eventually causing them to part ways. This event marked a significant turning point in Badshah's career, compelling him to pursue his artistic path independently.

The Breakthrough Moment: The Magic of 'Bad Boy'

The year 2012 proved to be the most fortunate year in Badshah's career. During this period, several of his singles garnered immense popularity, solidifying his presence and identity within the music industry. His track 'Bad Boy' emerged as his breakthrough song, catapulting him to stardom almost overnight. The overwhelming success of this song firmly established him in the industry and provided. Him with the platform to carve out his unique identity as an independent artist. This particular song was a pivotal moment, introducing him to a wider audience and setting the stage for his future triumphs.

A String of Chart-Busting Hits

Following the monumental success of 'Bad Boy', Badshah's career trajectory continued upwards without looking back. In 2016, the song 'Ladki Kar Gayi Chull' from the film 'Kapoor & Sons', starring Alia Bhatt and Sidharth Malhotra, became a massive hit, while similarly, his collaboration with Aastha Gill on the track 'DJ Waley Babu' also created a significant buzz and became incredibly popular among the youth. His 2020 release, 'Genda Phool', was another major success, further elevating his stardom and cementing his status. These consecutive hits helped him climb the ladder of success, establishing him as one of the most accomplished singers and rappers in the industry. Today, Badshah isn't only a household name in India but also recognized internationally, with his songs consistently topping charts and captivating audiences worldwide.