Filmibeat found the film inspiring and emotionally effective, praising Ranveer, Alia, Siddhant and Zoya Akhtar’s handling of ambition and class differences.

India Today praised Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt but found the film slow and felt its view of Dharavi sometimes remained that of an outsider.

DNA India called the film a winner, praising its infectious music, Ranveer Singh’s performance and Zoya Akhtar’s lively treatment of Murad’s rise.

Hindustan Times hailed it as a rousing underdog story with terrific writing, texture and performances that successfully bring Indian hip-hop into the mainstream.

Koimoi called it a rare film that gets almost everything right, praising its writing, performances, cinematography, music and emotional depth.

BollywoodLife called it a knockout and a landmark film, praising Ranveer and Alia’s performances and describing it as Zoya Akhtar’s best work at the time.

Bollywood Hungama called it a fun and moving entertainer with exemplary direction, excellent performances and an involving world, despite a few rough edges.

News18 praised Ranveer’s extraordinary performance, the music and the film’s observations on class, minorities and women, though the familiar underdog story runs long.

Times of India called it an engaging and authentic musical drama powered by strong performances, riveting rap battles and polished filmmaking, despite its long runtime.

India TV News praised Zoya Akhtar’s realistic look at inequality and dreams, Ranveer’s performance and Siddhant Chaturvedi’s impressive debut.