Who is Tommy Genesis? Indian-Origin Rapper Sparks Controversy Over Hindu Goddess Look in Music Video

Who is Tommy Genesis? Indian-Origin Rapper Faces Heat Over Hindu Goddess Look in Music Video

Tommy Genesis, the bold and enigmatic Indian-origin rapper, has sparked a major online debate following the release of her recent music video that portrays her in an outfit inspired by a Hindu goddess. The imagery has led to accusations of cultural appropriation and disrespect towards Hindu religious sentiments, with many calling for the video to be taken down. But who is Tommy Genesis, and why is this stirring so much controversy? Let’s dive into her background, career, and the details of the backlash she’s currently facing.

Who is Tommy Genesis?

Tommy Genesis, born Genesis Yasmine Mohanraj, is a Canadian rapper, model, and visual artist of Indian and Swedish descent. She rose to fame in the mid-2010s for her experimental rap style, blending elements of trap, punk, and industrial beats. Known for her provocative lyrics and unapologetic aesthetic, Tommy has often pushed boundaries with her music and visuals.

Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Genesis studied film and sculpture at Emily Carr University of Art and Design before turning her focus to music. She gained early recognition with her 2015 mixtape World Vision and later signed with Awful Records and Downtown Records. Her music is known for its exploration of identity, sexuality, and empowerment.

The Controversial Music Video

The controversy erupted after Tommy Genesis released a music video for her latest single, which featured her dressed in attire resembling Hindu goddess imagery — including multiple arms, ornate jewelry, and poses commonly associated with deities like Kali or Durga. While some fans praised the visuals for their artistic ambition, many others, especially from the Hindu community, criticized the video for being offensive and disrespectful.

Social media platforms were flooded with reactions, with hashtags like #TommyGenesisApologize and #CulturalAppropriation trending in some regions. Critics argue that the portrayal reduces sacred religious symbolism to mere fashion or aesthetics without understanding or honoring the cultural context behind them.

Backlash and Public Reaction

Hindu groups, cultural commentators, and religious leaders have spoken out against the video. Some demanded that streaming platforms remove the video, labeling it as “blasphemous” and “culturally insensitive.” Meanwhile, others see it as part of a larger pattern of Western entertainment industries misusing Eastern spiritual iconography for shock value or exotic appeal.

Tommy Genesis has yet to issue a formal apology or statement addressing the criticism. As of now, the music video remains live on major platforms, but the pressure is mounting for her to respond and clarify her intentions behind the visuals.

Art vs. Appropriation: The Ongoing Debate

This incident has reignited the ongoing debate about the thin line between artistic freedom and cultural appropriation. While artists often draw inspiration from diverse cultures, using religious symbols—especially from communities historically marginalized or misunderstood—can be deeply hurtful when done without sensitivity or respect.

For many followers of Hinduism, goddess figures represent the divine feminine and are revered through rituals, prayer, and deep spiritual connection. To see such symbols used casually in entertainment without proper understanding is, for them, not just distasteful—but offensive.

Final Thoughts

As the controversy unfolds, Tommy Genesis is now under the spotlight not just for her music, but for her cultural choices. Whether this leads to an apology, a deeper dialogue about cultural appropriation in the arts, or changes in how sacred iconography is used in media remains to be seen.

Regardless of intent, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural awareness in an increasingly global and interconnected world. Artists today walk a fine line, and the need to balance creativity with responsibility has never been greater.

What do you think about this controversy? Should artists be more careful when using religious imagery, or is this a matter of creative freedom? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.