16 Young Indian rappers to watch out for

India’s hip-hop scene is no longer underground; it’s loud, proud, and growing with fresh talent. From raw street verses to slick commercial hits, these artists are shaping the sound of the new India. If you haven’t hit play on them yet, now’s is the time.

1. Hanumankind: Hanumankind has been making big waves in Indian hip-hop. He first grabbed everyone’s attention with his hit ‘Big Dawgs’ in 2024. That song went viral all over the internet and led Hanumankind to rise to popularity. Hailing from Bengaluru, he is known for blending global rap with his own local flavour. Some of Hanumankind’s famous tracks include ‘Run It Up’, ‘Genghis’, ‘DAMNSON’, and ‘No Hook’.

2. Seedhe Maut: The Delhi-based ‘Seedhe Maut’ is famous for their impactful lyrics, energetic performances, and contribution to the rise of Indian hip-hop. The duo’s songs deliver razor-sharp lyrics and top-notch beats. Calm and EncoreABJ bring a mix of social commentary and personal storytelling that feels both relatable and revolutionary. Some of their popular song include ‘Khatta Flow’, ‘Raat ki Rani’, ‘Namuna’.

3. KR$NA: KR$NA is one of the sharpest voices in Indian hip-hop today. Known for his clever lyrics and smooth flow, he has delivered powerful tracks like 'I Guess', 'Knock Knock', and 'No Cap'. He always brings his A-game every time with his bars and beats. His recent track 'Vibrate' featuring Badshah is already stealing a spot in everyone's playlists.


4. King: King has been one of the prominent names in the hip-hop industry. With his melodic hooks and larger-than-life persona, King is one of the breakout stars of the moment. His tracks blend rap with pop, making them impossible to ignore.

5. Asal Kolaar: Asal Kolaar represents the South with pride. His Tamil-English mix, fast-paced flow, and clever writing make him one of the freshest voices in the game right now. Songs like ‘Jorthaale’ and ‘Sabapathy’ are catchy and packed with punchlines.

6. EPR: EPR is a mindblowing storyteller. He is known for his powerful stage presence and deep lyricism. His verses often carry emotion, politics, and poetry. He was the Runner-up of MTV Hustle season 1.

7. Chaar Diwari: Chaar Diwari might not be in the radar, but his songs are definitely flying high. He brings a refreshing introspective vibe to his music. His verses feel like late-night thoughts poured straight into a mic. And his latest track ‘Farebi’ with Raftaar is trending on the charts.


8. Paradox: Paradox is a young rapper from Najafgarh, Delhi, who rose to fame after MTV Hustle 2.0. Even though he didn’t win the show, he became really popular for his style and lyrics. He has also teamed up with Yo Yo Honey Singh for the song 'Payal', which is a chartbuster.

9. Dabzee: Dabzee brings a unique flavour to the scene with his smooth flow and confident delivery. Hailing from Kerala, he blends sharp rap verses with melodic hooks, often revolving around themes of identity, personal journeys, and social commentary. Tracks like ‘Vatteppam’ and ‘MANKA’ show he can blend melody while conveying the message.

10. MC Square: MC Square brings Haryanvi rap into the mainstream. His verses are raw, energetic, and rooted in local culture. He shot to fame with ‘Badmos Chora’, but what really sets him apart is how effortlessly he blends tradition with swag.


11. Panther: Panther's lyrics are sharp and sometimes fun, and he knows it. Over the years, he has proven that he can spit fire with confidence. He blends traditional desi influence with a modern flow, making tracks like 'Karam Kare' and 'Mere Alawa' sound both raw and recent.

12. Paal Dabba: Paal Dabba keeps it raw and real. His sound is stripped-down, and his bars are blunt. There’s an underground honesty in his music that fans connect with. Some of his tracks are’170CM’, ‘Sab’ and ‘Kathu Mela’.

13. Fotty Seven: Known for his Delhi slang and raw rhymes, Fotty Seven brings humour and swagger in equal measure. He has got his own flavour, and fans can’t get enough of it. Some of his popular tracks include ‘Bhai Hai’, ‘Banjo’, and ‘Boht Tej’.

Also read: Rapper King to make his acting debut in upcoming series 'Lukkha'

14. Yashraj: Yashraj is all about vibe and versatility. He switches between bars and bangers without missing a beat. Whether it’s a mellow track like Blue Tick or a fire collab with Sez or Karan Kanchan, he brings mood, melody, and meaning. He is popularly known for tracks like ‘Ishq Nachaawe’ from the film Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, ‘Murder Mubarak Title Track’ from the film Murder Mubarak, and his single tracks like ‘Dhundhala’.

15. Reemboo: Reemboo represents Arunachal Pradesh with heart and honesty. His music often talks about his roots. Tracks like ‘Chota Sa Gaon’ and ‘Who Am I dive’ into his personal journey, backed by soulful beats and smooth flows. He is low-key, but his voice is one you won’t forget.

16. Arivu: Arivu's music feels raw and powerful. Hailing from Tamil Nadu, he blends folk sounds with hard-hitting verses to talk about identity and pride. Starting from ‘Enjoy Enjaami’ to ‘Vaathi Raid’, his songs carry stories of struggle and strength.




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