Mohammed Aftab Sheikh, an 18-year-old from Birgunj, Nepal, is an up-and-coming rapper. Sheikh, known by his stage name Afu Insane, believes talent and determination will take him a long way. When he was 10, Sheikh found solace at his uncle’s shop, where the mesmerizing beats of Yama Buddha’s ‘Saathi’ left an indelible mark. Inspired by the legendary rapper, a dream began to take shape. Currently pursuing a diploma in Civil Engineering at Birgunj Institute of Technology, Sheikh seamlessly blends academic pursuits with a dedication to his musical career.

During the Covid-19 lockdown, Sheikh had time on his side. He delved into the world of rap, sharpening his skills in both writing and delivery. His virtual mentor? “The internet, particularly YouTube, became my classroom,” he says. The journey, however, wasn’t without challenges. “Despite having the knowledge and ideas, turning my passion into reality was difficult due to financial constraints.” The pandemic added another layer of difficulty to Sheikh’s pursuit of producing music. Yet, undeterred by these hurdles, he navigated his musical journey with resilience, determined to overcome obstacles and share his voice with the world.

Despite financial limitations, Sheikh refused to let go of his dreams. Armed with nothing but his smartphone, he took matters into his own hands, recording his music and bravely sharing it with the world via YouTube. Sheikh adds, “I used to record with my smartphone in a peaceful area, then edit the recordings before uploading them to YouTube. I know it might not be considered professional, but everyone has to start somewhere.”

Things changed when Sheikh met a friend who happened to own a recording studio. Seizing the opportunity, he embraced the chance to take his musical career further. With access to professional equipment and guidance, he had the chance to refine and produce high-quality work.

In a society where tradition often decides the path you must follow, Sheikh chose to defy the norm. Many people from his community doubted his choices and intentions. Even his family didn’t want him to get into music. His father, he says, was always angry with him. Despite the negativity and the self-doubt it led to, Sheikh was determined to give music a chance.

“All the criticism made me question myself but I didn’t want to give up,” he says. “Despite societal pressure, I kept going. Deep down, I believed I could do what I set out to do.” He found support from unexpected sources, and society’s critical view gradually turned into admiration and respect.

He comes from the lively Madhesh region, where he gained a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and languages. Fluent in Nepali, Hindi, Maithili, and Bhojpuri, he embodies the essence of Madhesi identity, effortlessly connecting people from different backgrounds.

Sheikh has ventured into the Nepali film industry with his debut in the web series ‘Arati’. Sheikh’s involvement in it marks a significant milestone in his artistic journey. And he couldn’t be happier as the project is aimed at sparking conversations and driving societal change. “By using my platform to amplify the voices of survivors and advocate for justice, I try to exemplify the power of art to bring about social transformation,” he says.

Sheikh’s personal favorite, ‘Khukuri,’ holds a special place in his heart as it reflects his love and pride for his nation. Through this powerful piece of art, Sheikh expresses his profound connection to his Nepali identity. “As a proud Nepali, I use ‘Khukuri’ to honor my roots and pay tribute to the resilience and spirit of the Nepali people,” he says. With heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies, he weaves a tapestry of love and admiration for Nepal, instilling a sense of patriotism and unity among listeners.

“Balancing the demands of engineering studies and pursuing my passion for rap has been no easy feat,” he says. “But when your vision is clear and you are passionate about something, you find a way to make time for it.”

Sheikh also challenges the stereotype surrounding Bhojpuri music with his unique approach to rap. In a genre often associated with less reputable themes, Sheikh’s Bhojpuri rap stands out for its depth and creativity. As one of the few creators rapping in Bhojpuri, he breaks new ground, captivating audiences with his innovative sound and thought-provoking lyrics.

Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, Sheikh’s unwavering belief in his dreams has helped him advance towards his goal. His resilience in the face of adversity, coupled with his fearless embrace of creativity and individuality, serves as an inspiration for others to pursue their passions with courage and conviction. As he continues to push boundaries and break barriers, his journey serves as a reminder that anything is possible with dedication, perseverance, and a steadfast belief in the power of one’s dreams.