We are excited to welcome Raja Kumari to this special episode of The Music Podcast with Tarsame Mittal! A rapper, singer, and songwriter who has redefined how Indian identity is represented on the global music stage, Raja Kumari seamlessly blends hip-hop with classical Indian influences. In this candid conversation, she shares her journey from learning Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music to writing for international stars and building her own career as an artist. She opens up about the challenges of breaking into the Western music industry as an Indian woman, the stereotypes she’s had to fight, and how she stays true to her roots while pushing boundaries. We explore her songwriting process, collaborations with artists like AR Rahman and Divine, and her thoughts on the growing global appeal of South Asian music. She also discusses her experiences navigating major labels, creative independence, and what it takes to build a brand beyond music. Beyond her career, Raja Kumari reflects on her cultural influences, spirituality, and the responsibility of representing India on international platforms. She talks about the power of authenticity, finding confidence in her voice, and why she believes music is a bridge between generations and geographies. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Precap 01:34 - Guest Intro 03:04 - Difference between Svetha Yallapragada Rao & Raja Kumari! 13:55 - Her vibrant stage presence & some tips for performers 15:33 - The NRI Culture & Sense of Belonging 20:11 - Authenticity & Being Original 22:51 - Songwriting & Global Collaborations! 27:08 - Her Spiritual Journey & its Connection with her Newest Album 41:46 - Working with Music Labels in India & Internationally - EXPLAINED 56:04 - Exploring Regional Culture in Music 59:00 - Pros of Self-Love + A Special Message 01:03:05 - Working Opportunities with Raja Kumari! 01:11:15 - #AskTheGuest 01:29:33 - Questions she wants to be asked 01:33:04 - Know more about her! 01:35:11 - Improvements in the Music Ecosystem 01:39:00 - Thank you! 01:39:20 - Outro! 📺 Watch the full episode and listen to the audio version on all major streaming platforms! Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful conversations on The Music Podcast! 🎙🎵 💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments and suggest future guests or topics. Connect with us at themusicpodcast01@gmail.com and be part of our growing community! Follow Raja Kumari: Instagram -instagram.com/therajakumari Facebook -facebook.com/therajakumari Website -rajakumari.com Twitter -twitter.com/therajakumari Host: Tarsame Mittal Guest: Raja Kumari Audio Credits: 🎧 Dialogue Editor, Mix & Master by Nikhil Bhagwat 🎧 Producer - Vinita Sabberwal 🎧 Business Head - Dimple Mehta The Crew: 🎬 Content Head - Vinita Sabberwal 🎬 Content Team - Abhineet Mandal, Janice Fernandes 🎬 Head of Production – Sahil Choubey 🎬 Post Production - Srinivas Rao, Ashutosh Surendra Kharunkar, Piyush Rajpoot 🎬 Content Researcher – Princy Surana