From underground lyricists to global sensations, these are the artists who have shaped Desi Hip Hop.
A pioneer of the Mumbai "gully rap" scene, DIVINE's raw storytelling about life in the streets made him a household name and inspired the movie "Gully Boy".
Widely regarded as one of India’s most technically skilled lyricists, KR$NA is known for his complex rhyme schemes, sharp wordplay, and formidable presence in the battle rap scene.
An independent icon, Emiway built a massive fanbase through his relentless work ethic and catchy tracks on YouTube, proving that artists can succeed without label support.
A mainstream powerhouse, Raftaar is celebrated for his high-speed delivery and ability to blend commercial appeal with authentic hip-hop. He also mentors new talent through his label, Kalamkaar.
This Delhi-based duo, consisting of Calm and Encore ABJ, is at the forefront of the new school of Indian hip-hop, known for their aggressive, futuristic sound and dense lyricism.
A veteran from South India, Brodha V is praised for his unique fusion of Carnatic music with hip-hop, along with his intricate English and Kannada lyricism.
Prabh Deep is an experimental and fearless artist from Delhi whose music pushes sonic boundaries while tackling subjects like mental health, poverty, and urban life.
The voice of Gen Z, MC Stan skyrocketed to fame with his unique "slatt" lingo, trap beats, and high-fashion aesthetic, further amplified by his win on Bigg Boss 16.
Known for his versatility, Ikka seamlessly moves between commercial Bollywood hits and raw underground tracks, showcasing his wide appeal and journey from Delhi’s streets.
Another pioneer of gully rap, Naezy's life story was a key inspiration for "Gully Boy." His socially conscious and political bars are revered by hip-hop purists.
A titan of the Indian music industry, Badshah is known for his chart-topping commercial hits and has played a significant role in popularizing hip-hop across the country.
A controversial but undeniably influential figure, Honey Singh was one of the first to bring a fusion of Punjabi music and hip-hop to the mainstream Indian audience.
Rising from the TV show "Hustle," King has achieved massive mainstream success with his melodic and romantic rap style, with hits like "Maan Meri Jaan" becoming global phenomena.
A global sensation, AP Dhillon has revitalized the Punjabi music scene by blending folk, pop, and trap. His music has bridged the gap between India and the diaspora.
Winner of "Hustle 2.0," MC Square brought the dialect and culture of Haryana to the national stage with his unique folk-rap fusion and humble persona.
This iconic duo from Karachi, consisting of Talha Anjum and Talhah Yunus, is beloved across the subcontinent for their profound Urdu lyricism, vivid storytelling, and classic hip-hop sound.
A prominent artist from the Kalamkaar label, Karma is a storyteller from Dehradun known for his introspective lyrics, smooth flow, and relatable narratives.
Dino James has carved a niche with his motivational and narrative-driven tracks. His songs often feel like short films, exploring themes of struggle, love, and triumph.
With a powerful, aggressive flow and a unique sound, Hanumankind is a standout artist from the South. His energetic delivery and clever English lyricism have earned him critical acclaim.
A key member of the Gully Gang collective, MC Altaf represents the authentic voice of Dharavi. His music is a raw reflection of his environment and experiences.
A prominent finalist from the first season of "MTV Hustle," MC Heam is known for his sharp, socially conscious lyrics and has been a long-standing, respected voice in the Indian hip-hop community.
A runner-up on "Hustle 2.0," Paradox won hearts with his versatile style, which ranges from party anthems to classical-infused storytelling, and his energetic stage presence.
Representing Haryana, Fotty Seven is known for his witty punchlines, satirical commentary on social issues, and a distinct Haryanvi flavour in his music.
Famous for his rapid-fire flow and emotional lyrics, Bella is a lyrical powerhouse who gained significant attention after his appearance on "Hustle."
Hailing from Kolkata, J Trix is a key member of Gully Gang known for his sharp lyricism, versatile flows, and impactful storytelling that often reflects his personal journey.