DNA India strongly praised Nawazuddin as Bal Thackeray and found the film energetic and engaging, recommending it despite the controversial subject.

Hindustan Times strongly criticised the film for celebrating Thackeray's controversial politics and violence, despite decent acting and strong production.

Koimoi found the political drama entertaining and engaging, with Nawazuddin giving an excellent performance. It felt politics sometimes slows the story.

Bollywood Hungama found it a well made and engaging biopic, strongly praising Nawazuddin, the direction and the recreation of important events.

News18's Rajeev Masand praised the craft and Nawazuddin but felt the film presents Thackeray without real flaws, turning the story into one sided propaganda.

Filmibeat praised Nawazuddin's powerful performance and the engaging telling of Thackeray's rise, though the film does not explore every issue deeply.

Times of India praised Nawazuddin and the honest presentation of several events, but felt Thackeray's political reasons needed more depth and clarity.

India TV News strongly praised Nawazuddin's commanding performance and found him convincing as Bal Thackeray.

India Today found the film long, crude and more like a political speech than a strong movie. It felt the story openly favours its subject.

The Indian Express found the film too worshipful and one sided. Nawazuddin's performance stands out, but the story rarely questions its central figure.