MTV Hustle is India’s pioneering rap reality show that has significantly contributed to the mainstream recognition of hip-hop culture in the country. Airing on MTV India, the show provides a platform for aspiring rappers to showcase their lyrical prowess, stage presence, and storytelling abilities. Each season features contestants competing through various rounds, including solo performances, collaborations, and thematic challenges, all under the mentorship and evaluation of established artists in the industry. The culmination of each season crowns a winner who exemplifies exceptional talent and potential in the Indian rap scene.
Table of Winners Across Seasons
| Season | Year | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2019 | M-Zee Bella |
| 2 | 2022 | MC Square |
| 3 | 2023 | Uday Pandhi |
| 4 | 2024 | To be announced |
Season 1 – M-Zee Bella
- Duration: August 10, 2019 – October 13, 2019
- Winner: M-Zee Bella (Deepak Singh)
- Runner-up: EPR (Santhanam Srinivasan Iyer)
- Host: Gaelyn Mendonca
- Judges: Raftaar, Nucleya, Raja Kumari
The inaugural season of MTV Hustle introduced viewers to India’s burgeoning rap talent. Over the course of 10 weeks, contestants showcased their skills through various challenges. M-Zee Bella, hailing from Ludhiana, emerged as the winner, impressing judges and audiences with his poetic lyrics and compelling performances. EPR secured the runner-up position, noted for his socially conscious themes and dynamic delivery.
Season 2 – MC Square
- Duration: September 3, 2022 – November 6, 2022
- Winner: MC Square (Abhishek Bensla)
- Runner-up: Paradox (Tanishq Singh)
- Host: Krissann Barretto
- Judges: Badshah
- Squad Bosses: EPR, Dino James, Dee MC, King
The second season, titled MTV Hustle 2.0, expanded the show’s format by introducing ‘Squad Bosses’—mentors who guided contestants through their journey. MC Square from Faridabad clinched the title with his unique style and storytelling, earning accolades from judge Badshah, who called him the next voice of rap in India. Paradox, known for his witty wordplay, was the runner-up.
Season 3 – Uday Pandhi
- Duration: October 21, 2023 – December 24, 2023
- Winner: Uday Pandhi
- Runner-up: Bassick (Shlok Verma)
- Hosts: Wicked Sunny, Super Manikk
- Judges: Badshah
- Squad Bosses: EPR, Dino James, Dee MC, Ikka
Season 3, known as MTV Hustle 03 Represent, continued the mentorship format with new challenges and themes. Delhi’s Uday Pandhi emerged victorious, showcasing versatility and a strong stage presence. Bassick from Jhansi secured the runner-up spot, impressing with his regional flair and lyrical depth.
Season 4 – To be announced
- Duration: October 19, 2024 – Present
- Winner: To be announced
- Runner-up: To be announced
- Hosts: Jasmeet Singh Bhatia, Talha Siddiqui
- Judges: Raftaar, Ikka Singh
- Squad Bosses: EPR, Dino James, Dee MC, Raga
The fourth season of MTV Hustle premiered on October 19, 2024, with Raftaar returning as a judge alongside Ikka Singh. The season features new hosts and the addition of Raga as a Squad Boss. As the competition is ongoing, viewers eagerly anticipate the emergence of the next rap sensation.
MTV Hustle has played a pivotal role in bringing Indian hip-hop to the forefront, providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent and gain national recognition. Each season has introduced audiences to diverse styles and narratives, reflecting the rich tapestry of India’s rap culture. As the show continues to evolve, it remains a significant contributor to the growth and mainstream acceptance of hip-hop in India.
