Saniya Mistri Qaiyummuddin: Redefining Identity in Indian Hip-Hop
In a digital era where unsolicited opinions often blur lines of basic respect, Saniya Mistri Qaiyummuddin has emerged as a compelling voice in Indian hip-hop. The 19-year-old rapper and poet, widely known as Saniya MQ, is challenging stereotypes and carving a niche on her own terms—all while wearing her hijab with pride.
A Breakthrough Performance Amid National Debate
Back in 2022, during fierce national protests over the hijab, Saniya walked onto the Hunarbaaz stage and let her talent speak volumes. Dressed in a pink salwar kameez and hijab, her powerhouse rap performance didn't just win over the crowd—it earned a standing ovation from judges Karan Johar, Parineeti Chopra, and Mithun Chakraborty. This moment marked her arrival in an industry where representation matters profoundly.
Confronting Educational Barriers
The hijab debate has intersected Saniya's personal and educational journey in significant ways. She recalls how her college in Chembur, Mumbai, implemented a hijab ban that forced her to leave after her first year. "It was strange," she shared. "They didn't want girls to wear hijabs, yet everyone was bowing to other rules of dress." This experience highlighted the contradictions many Muslim women face in educational institutions.
Beyond the "Muslim Rapper" Label
While much media coverage centers on her choice to rap while wearing a hijab, Saniya emphasizes that her art transcends religious identity. "I want people to see me as an artist, an activist, a social worker, whatever resonates with them," she explained. "I never started my art thinking I would become a Muslim rapper. I started because I want everyone to see what I do and what I stand for."
On challenging narrow narratives about Muslim women, she added: "People often judge Muslim women based on hearsay or stereotypes. Some women choose to follow their religion, some don't. But it's not fair to generalise that Muslim women are oppressed. Everyone has their own story."
Navigating the Music Industry's Challenges
In her recent track Ladki Jeet Gayi, Saniya highlights the struggles rising artists face in the industry. Dissecting the line "Jinka Laalchi Tareeka, Business Bana Dete Artist Ka", she revealed: "There are a lot of people ready to take advantage of rising artists. An artist earns Rs 100, and sometimes 4–5 people take Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 30 each. Their greed turns the artist's passion into a business."
Community Acceptance and Artistic Vision
Despite facing occasional scepticism from audiences unfamiliar with hijab-wearing performers, Saniya stressed that the hip-hop community has consistently supported her. "The hip-hop community has never judged me differently," she noted. "Sometimes comments from audiences are negative, sometimes positive, but among artists, I've felt supported."
Professionally, she believes the hijab controversy hasn't hindered her art. "An artist can come from any community or background. Art is for everyone. It shouldn't be labelled by religion, caste, or place." Despite social and political undertones in her work, she doesn't view her music as overtly political. "I represent myself in my art the way I live. I want people to normalise seeing a hijab on a rapper without making it a big issue."
Roots and Resilience
Born in Govandi, Mumbai, Saniya reflected on her disciplined upbringing: "From home to school, and school to home. I never bunked school. Most of the time, I didn't have friends; I used to write in diaries." When her family discovered her rap writing, they offered unwavering support. "They told me, 'Yes, it will work. Do whatever you want if you think it's right for you.'"
Crediting consistency for her growth, Saniya advised aspiring artists: "To be seen in the hip-hop industry, you have to keep creating without worrying about failing. Whenever I feel I should do something, I do it." Her journey continues to inspire those challenging stereotypes in creative fields.
