Hindustan Times found Bala hilarious, empathetic and very well acted, but criticized some sexist, racist and crude jokes and found the second half slower and more preachy.

Koimoi strongly praised the humor, Ayushmann and the film's deeper message about accepting yourself, calling it a must watch.

BollywoodLife praised Ayushmann and Bhumi and found plenty to laugh at, while appreciating that the comedy also gives audiences something meaningful to think about.

Pinkvilla enjoyed its light hearted treatment of beauty, gender and class prejudices, along with the performances, but felt the film drags in places and could have been shorter.

Bollywood Hungama praised its humor, strong message, direction and performances. It felt interest drops when the second half becomes more serious, before a strong climax lifts it again.

News18's Rajeev Masand found the film consistently enjoyable and Ayushmann highly sympathetic, while also pointing to the troubling decision to darken Bhumi's skin.

Filmibeat praised the performances, direction and humorous writing, but felt the screenplay dips around the climax and becomes slightly preachy.

Times of India called it a relatable, consistently entertaining comedy, with Ayushmann's stellar performance keeping the story engaging despite its flaws.

India TV News found the film warm, funny and perceptive about society's obsession with physical perfection, while acknowledging that it is not flawless.

India Today loved the sharp writing, humor and performances, calling it one of 2019's best films, but strongly criticized casting Bhumi and darkening her skin for the role.