India’s hip-hop scene has transformed over the years, evolving from an underground movement into a mainstream cultural phenomenon. The genre first gained traction in the 1990s with pioneers like Baba Sehgal, who introduced Indian audiences to rap by blending Hindi lyrics with Western hip-hop beats. The early 2000s saw artists like Bohemia, known as the ‘Pioneer of Desi Hip-Hop,’ revolutionising the scene with Punjabi rap, bringing Indian hip-hop to a global platform.
While the industry has traditionally been male-dominated, female rappers have been making their mark, proving that hip-hop is not just a boys’ club. These women are challenging norms, using their voices to bring attention to social issues, personal struggles, and cultural pride. As we celebrate International Women in Music Day 2025, it’s the perfect time to highlight some of the most talented female rappers in India who are shaping the future of desi hip-hop.
Female Rappers Shaping The Future Of Indian Hip-Hop
‘PHO’
Akriti Lal, popularly known by her stage name ‘Pho,’ found her true calling in music and soon became a prominent figure in Delhi’s hip-hop scene. At just 24, she has made a name for herself as a rapper, beatboxer, and singer, captivating audiences across cities.
With her debut EP, ‘Bheetar Bahar,’ Pho showcases her talent as a natural storyteller, weaving poetry and rhythm into compelling narratives. Her breakthrough moment came with ‘MTV Hustle 4,’ where her song Laundey Crazy became an instant hit, leaving a lasting impression on fans. As one of the few female artists making waves in the Indian hip-hop industry, she stands out with her poetic, bold, and emotionally charged storytelling.
Just like her live performances, where she seamlessly engages the audience, her music radiates an intimate yet electrifying energy. Pho is undoubtedly carving a unique space for herself in the evolving landscape of Indian hip-hop.
‘Meba Ofilia’
Born and raised in Shillong, Meghalaya, Meba Ofilia has been making waves in the music industry since 2018. She gained recognition with her debut track ‘Done Talking,’ a collaboration with Big Ri, which earned her the prestigious European Music Award for ‘Best Indian Act.’
In early 2019, her song ‘Lady Bizz,’ released under Azadi Records, was featured on shesaid.so, a global platform dedicated to supporting women in the music industry. Known for her chill-hop vibe, Meba infuses her tracks with deeply personal emotions and real-life experiences, creating music that is both sonically captivating and rich in meaning. Through her artistry, she continues to redefine India’s hip-hop scene, making her mark as a standout female rapper.
‘Mrunal Shankar’
Pune-based rapper Mrunal Shankar stands out with her unique blend of rap and singing, showcasing both versatility and originality in the hip-hop scene. Signed to the prestigious rap label ‘Kalamkaar’ in early 2021, she has been making music since 2019. Before gaining widespread recognition, she honed her craft as a live performer in pubs and bars. From those early days to collaborating with well-known artists like Deep Kalsi, Mrunal has made significant strides in the industry and shows no signs of slowing down.
‘Reble’
Reble, born Daiaphi Lamare, is a rising star in Indian hip-hop, known for blending her tribal roots with personal and societal themes. Her music reflects her journey as a young woman navigating life’s challenges with raw honesty. Tracks like ‘Bond Fission’ showcase her relentless drive to succeed, while ‘Believe’ offers a powerful message of self-confidence. However, it’s ‘Terror’ that truly sets her apart, as she infuses her Meghalayan heritage into her verses, mixing English with Khasi and Jaintia to create a sonic tribute to her roots. Fearless and unapologetic, Reble is redefining Indian hip-hop with her unique voice and storytelling.
‘Shia’
Shia, a Mumbai-based artist, has been making music since 2020, focusing on themes of personal growth and a positive mindset. Her debut single, ‘Jah Blessings,’ was released under Purple Wav, marking the beginning of her journey in the industry. Known for infusing her tracks with meaningful and pragmatic concepts, Shia confidently asserts her presence as a brown woman in the male-dominated hip-hop scene. She has also collaborated with notable artists like Zero Chill and Meme Machine, proving her versatility and talent in the evolving Indian hip-hop landscape.
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Credits: Insta
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