Panjabi MC, also known as Rajinder Rai, gained international fame with his hit "Mundian to Bach Ke" in 2002, despite having a long-standing career that began in 1993. His fusion of desi and hip-hop styles, showcased in his remix of Kuldip Manak's "Ghariah Milan De," led to a series of successful releases on the Nachural label. Panjabi MC's incorporation of desi samples and live musicians set him apart in the bhangra music scene, culminating in his breakthrough track.
Despite facing industry challenges, Panjabi MC's consistent output in the '90s with albums like Souled Out and Legalised solidified his status as a bhangra music icon. "Mundian to Bach Ke" stood out for its innovative use of traditional instruments and samples, earning acclaim worldwide and even a remix by Jay-Z. This success propelled Panjabi MC onto platforms like the U.K.'s Top of the Pops, showcasing his unique blend of music that resonated with global audiences.