My vision is to create a safe space for female artistes: Raja Kumari

It is a commanding time and place for Indian American rapper Raja Kumari. The Grammy-nominated artiste dropped an EP HBIC, did multiple notable collaborations (including one with Madhuri Dixit Nene), and was nominated for the Best Indian Act at the Europe Music Awards. Now, the newest feather in her cap is starting her own independent music label.
The US rapper was in Bengaluru for a music festival, and was thrilled.“I usually perform a lot more in Mumbai and Delhi. But Benglauru has always been one of my favourites. I also played at a festival, which is always a special experience,” she said.
Starting her own record label is revolutionary. As she released her EP herself, almost seven years after her debut as an artiste, she put herself out there among the decision makers in the music industry. In 2021, she dropped Rani Cypher, a first-of-its-kind collaboration between four female rappers: herself, Siri, Meba Ofilia and Dee MC. “The idea is to create a safe space for more female artistes to establish themselves. We really need that. When women speak their minds, they are always labelled difficult. We need a space that accepts and encourages,” she said.
The rap artiste is excited about an interesting collaboration that combines East American art and music, and two new projects that will be rolled out in 2023. “I have been working hard for the past two years, trying to control the flow, and get everything on my plate done. I am quite excited about all that the future holds,” she adds.

WEAR YOUR STYLE
Much like her music, Raja Kumari’s fashion has helped her stand out. Her taste for contemporary Indian representation in what she wears is an ode to her origins. “Female artistes are constantly questioned for what they hear, or how they choose to look. There have been times when I never could find clothes I liked to wear,” she reveals, adding that it is liberating to see how fashion has become more inclusive.
NEW TALENT
Svetha Yallapragada Rao aka Raja Kumari, who has earlier collaborated with Gwen Stefani, Iggy Azalea, etc was also a judge at a desi rap reality show. “It was exciting to see so many female rappers. There is room for everyone in this industry,” she concludes.