Leopard Tooth Pendant Worn By Rapper Vedan Confirmed Genuine, Prosecution Likely

The case involving rapper Vedan has entered a crucial stage after laboratory testing confirmed that the tooth embedded in a pendant worn by him belongs to a leopard, forest officials said on Saturday.

The artist, whose real name is Hirandas Murali, was arrested in April 2025 under the Wildlife Protection Act in connection with alleged possession of the wildlife item. Officials clarified in earlier proceedings that the case was registered after a police tip-off linked to a narcotics raid at a Kochi apartment, where Vedan and others were also allegedly found in possession of cannabis.

Forest department sources said the pendant was seized after officers noticed it during the earlier investigation, leading to a separate wildlife case being registered. The Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Perumbavoor later sent the item to a central forensic laboratory in Kolkata for scientific examination.

According to officials, the laboratory has now confirmed that the pendant contains a genuine leopard tooth , removing earlier uncertainty over its origin. The complete forensic report has been submitted to the court, while the Forest Department is seeking a certified copy for further legal action.

Officials also said that during initial investigation stages, the possibility of the pendant being of foreign origin or unauthenticated material was considered, which had contributed to the earlier lack of conclusive evidence.

During the bail proceedings in April 2025 , Vedan argued that he was unaware the pendant contained a leopard tooth and claimed it had been gifted by a fan. The court granted bail at the time, noting that the authenticity of the item had not been scientifically established.

With the new forensic confirmation, officials said the evidentiary position in the case has significantly strengthened, and the department is likely to file a prosecution report before the court soon .

However, legal proceedings are still underway, and no conviction has been recorded. The case will now depend on whether investigators can establish key legal elements such as knowing possession, intent, and origin of acquisition under provisions of wildlife protection laws.