Raja Kumari, an American-Indian rapper, singer and songwriter has recently made history by becoming the first Indian-origin musician to win an American Music Award. At the 51st AMA ceremony in Los Angeles, she took home the award in the ‘Favourite Soundtrack’ category for her song ‘Renegade’, from Arcane: League of Legends Season 2. This win was not just a personal milestone but a moment of pride for the entire Indian music community.
Raja Kumari’s historic win
Raja Kumari’s win is a major achievement for the Indian music Industry. She won alongside Stefflon Don and Jarina de Marco, making their Arcane music stand out among big global names. This win not only shows her talent but it also shows how American music awards are recognising various global singers. By becoming the first Indian-origin musician to win this award, she has also opened doors for many others like her who aim for global success. In an interview with The Hindustan Times, she said:
“I’ve always had to believe in myself, and this win just confirms that belief and encourages me further. I’m so excited to bring this home for India.”
Raja Kumari’s journey from a classical dancer to a globally known rapper
Raja Kumari’s real name is Svetha Yallapragada Rao. She was born in Claremont, California but her early life was pretty much influenced by Indian culture. She is trained in Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi and Kathak dance forms while developing a passion for hip-hop music. In a candid conversation with The Indian Express, she said:
“Growing up in the West, I was far removed from my motherland, and I always felt the need to preserve and stay connected to my culture. It was always about identity — when it came time to become an artist, I couldn’t leave behind who I was. I wanted the world to see the beauty of my culture.”
Her musical inspirations include artists like Lauryn Hill, Beyonce, AR Rahman and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Before her debut, she worked as a songwriter for artists and bands like Gwen Stefani, Iggy Azalea, Fifth Harmony and Fall Out Boy. She made her debut in 2016 with Mute, featuring Elvis Brown. In 2019, she finally made her debut in mother tongue Telugu by featuring in Attention Everybody.
In 2022, she started her own independent music label, Godmother Records. In 2024, she worked with Stefflon Don on the track Renegade for Arcane’s second season for which she got an award in 2025. Her latest album, Kashi to Kailash, which was released on February 21, 2025, through her label Godmother Records, is her most personal and spiritual project. It is, she says, ‘a sonic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.’
Raja Kumari’s cultural impact
Raja Kumari’s cultural impact goes beyond her music. By blending Indian classical influences with hip-hop and pop, she brings unique cultural stories to international audiences. Through her music label, Godmother Records, she supports women artists and promotes authentic voices, making her a key figure in expanding visibility for Indian-origin creators worldwide.
Raja Kumari’s first-ever win at American Music Award honours talent, dedication, and cultural pride. Her journey from classical dance stages to global music platforms is an inspiration to budding artists worldwide.
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