Long before Bloodywood released an album, they were a viral hit. Formed in New Delhi in 2016, their unique blend of nu metal and traditional Indian folk music helped attract interest to their covers of pop and metal songs. When 2018’s Ari Ari blew up – the track currently has more than 7.2 million views on YouTube – they switched to focus on original songs, the core trio of vocalists Karan Katiyar, Jayant Bhadula and Raoul Kerr now also drawing heavily on their roots.
Their 2022 debut, Rakshak, officially turned them into one of India’s most popular metal bands. Riding high on a string of singles that passed the 1 million views mark on YouTube, their international shows – including a full UK tour – were packed to the rafters. Two years later, they’re putting the finishing touches to a follow-up, laying out ambitious plans that they say will see them touring well into 2026. Hammer caught up with Karan to find out exactly what they’ve got in store...
