From Pakki Dhakki to Rajkumar Hirani’s Series – Jammu Rapper VERSE Finds National Spotlight with Pritam and Pedro Title Track in Bollywood

Every once in a while, an artist from a small neighbourhood breaks through to the national stage, giving an entire city a reason to celebrate. For the residents of Pakki Dhakki in Jammu, that artist is Atul Sharma, better known by his stage name Verse, whose voice now features on the title track of filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani’s latest show, Pritam and Pedro.

Landing the title track for a Rajkumar Hirani production is a significant career milestone for any musician. For Verse, who has spent over 15 years building his career independently, it represents years of persistence finally paying off.

A Journey Built Without Industry Backing

Unlike many artists who enter the industry through established networks or major labels, Verse has carved his own path. Originally from Jammu, he later moved to Mumbai to pursue music professionally, navigating one of India’s most competitive entertainment industries without influential connections or backing from major music companies.

Throughout the journey, he has remained closely connected to his roots. His hometown of Jammu—and particularly Pakki Dhakki—continues to be an integral part of his identity even as his work reaches national audiences.

Fifteen Years of Independent Hip-Hop

Verse has been creating independent rap music for more than a decade and a half, steadily building his reputation through consistency and versatility. Performing in Hindi, Punjabi and Dogri, he has worked to bring regional identity into mainstream Indian hip-hop while maintaining broad commercial appeal.

His career reflects the growing presence of independent artists who are earning recognition through talent and perseverance rather than traditional industry pathways.

A Growing List of Commercial Credits

The Pritam and Pedro title track adds to an expanding portfolio of commercial and entertainment projects.

Among his notable credits are:

• The rap performance for the Pulsar promotional campaign.
• Contribution to the promotional music for Fukrey 3, one of Bollywood’s successful comedy franchises.
• Creation and live performance of the Majestic Pride Casino, Goa title track.
• The title track for Rajkumar Hirani’s Pritam and Pedro, introducing his voice to audiences across the country through JioHotstar.

These projects highlight an artist capable of moving comfortably between independent music, film promotions, branded campaigns and live performances.

Building More Than a Music Career

Alongside his work as a performer, Verse has established Brothers Anthem Records, an independent record label that reflects his long-term vision of building creative ownership rather than simply working as a freelance artist.

A a time when independent musicians are increasingly shaping India’s music landscape, initiatives like these represent a shift towards artists creating their own platforms while supporting emerging talent.

A Moment of Pride for Jammu

 Verse’s success carries significance beyond his own career. It reflects the growing contribution of artists from Jammu & Kashmir to India’s mainstream entertainment industry and demonstrates that talent from smaller cities can compete on national platforms without compromising its identity.

From writing and recording independent rap in Jammu to performing for major brands, creating a title track for Majestic Pride Casino Goa, contributing to Bollywood promotions, and now lending his voice to a Rajkumar Hirani production, Verse’s journey is one built on persistence rather than shortcuts.

 As Pritam and Pedro reaches viewers on JioHotstar, the title track is expected to introduce Verse to a much wider audience. For Jammu, it marks another milestone—and a reminder that artists from the region are steadily making their presence felt in India’s entertainment industry through talent, hard work and unwavering dedication.