Badshah Creates History as First Indian Rapper Selected for NBA Celebrity Game
In a groundbreaking development that celebrates the global rise of Indian hip-hop, multi-platinum rapper and entertainment powerhouse Badshah is poised to make history. He has been confirmed as the first Indian rapper ever to participate in the prestigious 2026 Ruffles® NBA All-Star Celebrity Game. This landmark inclusion represents a significant moment for Indian artists in international pop culture and sports entertainment.
Event Details and Star-Studded Lineup
The highly anticipated celebrity basketball game is scheduled for February 13, 2026, and will be hosted at the iconic Kia Forum in Inglewood, California. This year's roster showcases an impressive array of talent from various entertainment spheres, creating a truly diverse and exciting lineup.
Badshah will be sharing the court with numerous prominent figures, including:
- Actor and comedian Keegan-Michael Key
- Multi-platinum music producer Mustard
- Acclaimed rapper GloRilla
- NBA champion Jeremy Lin
- Several NFL stars
- Popular reality television personalities
- Influential global social media figures
Historic Halftime Performance and Cultural Significance
Adding to the event's international flair, the halftime show will feature a special performance by K-pop group CORTIS. This marks the first time in history that a K-pop act will grace the NBA Celebrity Game halftime stage, further emphasizing the event's growing cultural diversity and global appeal.
Badshah has expressed profound enthusiasm about this unprecedented opportunity. He described his participation as a historic milestone that transcends mere athletic competition. According to the rapper, this moment symbolizes breaking boundaries and creating new firsts while proudly representing Indian hip-hop and its passionate fanbase on an international platform in Los Angeles.
Personal Passion and Professional Honor
The celebrated artist has revealed that basketball has been a longstanding personal passion of his. The chance to play alongside distinguished celebrities from music, film, and professional sports represents what he calls a true honour. This experience blends his personal interests with his professional achievements in a unique and meaningful way.
The Ruffles NBA All-Star Celebrity Game stands as one of the signature events during the NBA All-Star Weekend, masterfully combining athletic competition with entertainment and cross-cultural exchange. Badshah's historic selection clearly signals the deepening international influence of Indian artists, effectively bridging the worlds of music and sports while showcasing India's growing cultural footprint on global stages.
