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Article published In: Language, Culture and Society
Vol. 7:1 (2025) ► pp.68–97

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Masculinity and violence in Kathmandu’s Raw Barz rap battles on YouTube

ORCiD logo with link | University of Idaho
ORCiD logo with link | University of Idaho
Published online: 28 July 2025
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/lcs.24031.sha
Abstract
Existing research on global rap has extensively documented the creative appropriation of Western popular music and its potential for progressive politics. Little attention has been paid to exploring the less favorable aspect of this phenomenon — how rap can potentially perpetuate discriminatory societal ideologies. With this concern, the present study aims to examine the darker side of the genre, with a focus on free style rap battles. We present an analysis of representative lyrics and performances from rap battles that took place in Kathmandu, Nepal. In our analysis, we illustrate how the creative use of the language of pop culture, including embodiment, cultural metaphors and rap slang within these battles, serves to perpetuate ideologies related to misogyny, racism, and colorism. Many of these toxic ideologies are already deeply ingrained in Nepali society, while others, including racism, find their way into Nepal through the influence of global rap.
Article outline
  • Introduction and research context
  • Rap battles as global genres
  • The evolution of rap and rap battles in Nepal
  • Sociocultural context: Kathmandu and Nepali society
  • Theoretical framework: Symbolic violence
  • Methodology and data
  • Analytical framework
  • Sexualization and misogyny
  • Racialization and colorism
  • Discussion and conclusion
  • Notes
  • References
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