Emiway Bantai, the Indian rapper who took the music industry by storm, is a name synonymous with raw talent and perseverance. Known for his unique ability to blend Hindi and English in his lyrics, Emiway is celebrated as one of the most influential independent artists in the Indian hip-hop scene. Born Bilal Shaikh, Emiway’s journey to fame is one of resilience, determination, and undying passion for music. From his humble beginnings to becoming a household name, Emiway’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring musicians across the globe.
This article delves into Emiway Bantai’s biography, exploring key aspects of his personal and professional life, including his age, family, relationships, net worth, and more.
Emiway Bantai Biography
Emiway Bantai was born on November 13, 1995, in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Coming from a middle-class, interfaith family, Emiway’s upbringing was a mix of cultural influences. His father, Bilal Shaikh, is Muslim, while his mother is Hindu. At an early age, Emiway’s family relocated to Mumbai, where he spent most of his formative years.
His early interest in music grew stronger when he discovered rap music during his teenage years. Artists like Eminem and Lil Wayne greatly influenced him, leading to the creation of his stage name, “Emiway,” which is a combination of their names. Emiway completed his education up to the 11th standard before deciding to pursue music full-time. His decision was met with initial resistance from his family, but his determination eventually paved the way for his success.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Bilal Shaikh |
| Stage Name | Emiway Bantai |
| Date of Birth | November 13, 1995 |
| Birthplace | Bengaluru, Karnataka, India |
| Hometown | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter |
| Education | 11th Standard |
| Religion | Islam |
Emiway Bantai Age
As of 2025, Emiway Bantai is 29 years old. His journey began as a teenager in the streets of Mumbai, where he worked tirelessly to make a mark in the hip-hop scene. Over the years, Emiway has grown as an artist, releasing numerous hit tracks and building a massive fan base both in India and abroad.
Emiway Bantai Wife
Emiway Bantai is currently unmarried. While his professional life is often in the spotlight, Emiway prefers to keep his personal life private. However, fans have always been curious about his relationships.
In the past, Emiway was in a relationship with Mukta Karandikar, a rapper and model, from 2015 to 2018. Mukta later appeared on MTV’s “Love School.” Post their breakup, rumors linked Emiway to Swaalina, a popular model featured in his music videos. However, neither Emiway nor Swaalina has confirmed these speculations.
Emiway Bantai Marriage
As of now, Emiway Bantai has not announced any plans for marriage. The rapper appears focused on his career, consistently producing new music and expanding his reach as an artist. For fans hoping to see Emiway settle down, it seems they may have to wait a little longer.
Emiway Bantai Family
Emiway Bantai’s family background is a fascinating blend of cultures. His father is a Muslim, while his mother practices Hinduism. Growing up in an interfaith household has likely given Emiway a broad perspective on life, which reflects in his music and personality.
While Emiway is incredibly close to his family, he has maintained a low profile regarding his personal life. He has a younger brother who goes by the stage name VBreak and occasionally supports Emiway in his music endeavors. Emiway’s family has played a significant role in shaping his journey, despite initial hesitations about his career choice.
Emiway Bantai Height
Emiway Bantai stands at approximately 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) tall and weighs around 60 kg (132 lbs). His lean build and dynamic energy have made him a captivating performer on stage. Emiway’s appearance, including his signature long hair and casual style, has become an integral part of his persona.
Emiway Bantai Mother
Emiway’s mother, who practices Hinduism, has been a source of strength and inspiration for him. Despite belonging to a different faith than her husband, she has supported Emiway’s artistic journey. While Emiway often keeps details about his family private, he has occasionally spoken about the importance of his mother’s role in his life.
Emiway Bantai Net Worth
As of 2023, Emiway Bantai’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million USD. His earnings come from multiple sources, including music royalties, live performances, brand endorsements, and YouTube revenue. Emiway’s YouTube channel boasts millions of subscribers, making it one of his primary income sources.
The rapper’s independent approach to his career has set him apart in the music industry. By choosing to self-produce and distribute his music, Emiway has not only retained creative control but also maximized his financial gains.
Emiway Bantai Real Name
Emiway Bantai’s real name is Bilal Shaikh. The name “Emiway” is a tribute to his musical inspirations, Eminem and Lil Wayne. It reflects the profound impact these artists have had on Emiway’s style and career.
His decision to adopt a stage name also signifies his desire to carve out a distinct identity in the music industry, one that resonates with his journey and aspirations.
Emiway Bantai Religion
Emiway Bantai practices Islam, following in the footsteps of his father. However, his upbringing in an interfaith household has exposed him to diverse religious and cultural traditions. Emiway’s inclusive perspective on life is often evident in his lyrics, which emphasize unity and understanding.
Additional Information
Emiway’s rise to fame began with his debut English single “Glint Lock” in 2013, followed by his breakout Hindi track “Aur Bantai” in 2014. His big break came with the song “Asli Hip Hop,” which was featured in the Bollywood film Gully Boy in 2019.
Over the years, Emiway has won several awards and accolades, including the Radio City Freedom Award in 2016 for his song “Aisa Kuch Shot Nai Hai.” His music videos often garner millions of views within days of their release, showcasing his popularity among fans.
Emiway is known for his unapologetic style and fearless approach to addressing societal issues through his music. Tracks like “Khatam,” “Machayenge,” and “Firse Machayenge” have become anthems for the youth, solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the Indian hip-hop community.
Despite his fame, Emiway remains humble and deeply connected to his roots. He often credits his success to his fans and emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself.
Conclusion
Emiway Bantai’s journey from a young boy in Mumbai to a global hip-hop sensation is nothing short of extraordinary. His ability to overcome challenges and stay authentic has endeared him to millions of fans worldwide. With an ever-growing discography and a loyal fan base, Emiway continues to inspire aspiring artists to follow their dreams.
As the Indian rap scene evolves, Emiway Bantai stands tall as a beacon of hope and innovation, proving that independent artists can achieve unparalleled success with dedication and hard work.
