India’s Hip-Hop Wave Artists Powering Indian Hip-Hop Today

One could argue that the golden years of Indian hip-hop are right now. Music has branched out of cinema industries and made its way into the hands of independent labels, musicians and bands. This has allowed for the hip-hop scene in India to flourish more than ever, with musicians from all over the country using music as a method to spread social messages, document experiences and most importantly, to simply express themselves in ways that feel authentic, unfiltered, and rooted in their own realities. In that vein, here is a list of Indian hip-hop artists whose music is sure to get you thinking, dancing, and feeling the pulse of a movement that’s reshaping contemporary Indian music.
 
Seedhe Maut
This iconic hip-hop duo has become one of the most influential names in Indian music. Known for their striking lyricism and smart wordplay, their music captures the energy of urban India like no other. They often switch between Hindi and English to amplify their storytelling, which moves between political commentary, social observation and simple, plain fun. To mark their 10 year anniversary, they released their album DL91FM, and are touring all over the country later this year, and you must catch them live.
 
Chaar Diwari
Chaar Diwari is also a name that has become synonymous with Indian hip hop. This independent rapper and songwriter’s music often captures honesty and introspective depth, while keeping the tone fun and funky. Jhaag, his single which was released in 2023, put him on the map, and it doesn’t look like he’s going to stop anytime soon.

Hanumankind
Hanumankind, the Bengaluru-based rapper, brings an unmatched stage presence and a sound that blends international polish with local grit. His Big Dawgs had the internet in a frenzy for months after its release, following which he even made a remix of the same song with American rapper ASAP Rocky. His tracks don’t just showcase technical skill, they carry an energy that commands attention and leaves audiences wanting more.
 
Paal Dabba
Paal Dabba brings a fresh energy to Indian hip-hop with his mix of Tamil influences and global sounds. His music is bold, playful and cinematic, reflecting his background as a dancer and choreographer. Tracks like 170CM, Kaathu Mela and Galatta have cemented his place as one of the most exciting new voices in the scene. Currently, he’s experimenting with cross-genre collaborations, like his recent single Vibe with SickFlip, and continuing to expand his reach across both independent and film music spaces.

Dhanji
Dhanji, hailing from Ahmedabad, is known for his experimental style and multilingual flow that shifts between Gujarati, Hindi and English with ease. His music draws from funk, trap, jazz and boom bap, making every track feel fresh and unpredictable. Songs like Mausambi Drip and Keh Do Ki Yeh Jhoot Hai have put him firmly on the map. After releasing his debut studio album RUAB in 2023 and following it up with the mixtape Drive-In Cinema 2.1, he continues to push boundaries and redefine what Indian hip-hop can sound like.
  
Dee MC
Dee MC’s fearless approach to storytelling is the reason she stands out from everyone else. As one of the most prominent voices in hip hop, Dee’s music often addresses issues of gender, identity and social change, while still carrying the swagger and rhythm that define the genre. Last year, she even represented India as a cultural ambassador in an international gathering that brought together future leaders of Hip Hop from 22 different countries.

Prabh Deep
With a distinctive voice and genre-defying sound, comes Prabh Deep. His music often blends hip-hop with electronic, funk and Punjabi influences, creating tracks that are both experimental and deeply personal.  Early hits like Class-Sikh and Amar established him as a force in the scene, and he has since then worked on several albums and EPs. His live performances are a treat, since he has mastered the art of blending underground grit and mainstream polish.
 
MC Stan
MC Stan is known for his raw delivery and unique, slang-heavy style of music. Born and brought up in Pune, Nanchaku, Basti Ka Hasti and Ek Din Pyaar have become anthems, bringing street wisdom and catchy hooks together. Currently, he’s touring across India, dropping singles, and  going on to build on the cult following that has made him a household name.

Arivu
Arivu expertly brings hip hop and Tamil folk traditions together, to create music that is powerful and political. He addresses issues of caste, inequality and social justice, giving voice to communities and histories that are frequently overlooked. His track Enjoy Enjaami made him an important figure in socially conscious music, and he continues to work with The Casteless Collective, an indie band based in Chennai.
 
Wild Wild Women
Wild Wild Women is India’s first all-female hip-hop collective, based in Mumbai, bringing together rappers, dancers and graffiti artists to create a space for women in a largely male-dominated scene. Their music celebrates community and creativity, while being rooted in issues of gender. A power to be reckoned with, they are inspiring a new generation of women to claim their place in Indian hip-hop.

Rae Mulla
Rae Mulla is a rapper who has been making waves in the underground scene with his dynamic energy and surreal perspectives. Drawing inspiration from artists like Salvador Dali, his music and visuals stand out for being experimental and a little left-of-center. Recent tracks like Breathe and PYAAR have shown that he’s here to stay, and have helped him carve out a growing fanbase.

Words Neeraja Srinivasan 
Date 18-9-2025