USA (Commonwealth Union)_ In a groundbreaking moment for Indian representation in the global music scene, Indian-origin rapper and singer Raja Kumari has etched her name in history by winning at the 51st American Music Awards (AMA). She becomes the first Indian-origin artist to receive this prestigious accolade, clinching the award in the Favourite Soundtrack category for her contribution to Arcane League of Legends: Season 2. Raja Kumari, whose real name is Svetha Yallapragada Rao, was honoured for her track Renegade (We Never Run), created in collaboration with British hip-hop sensation Stefflon Don and Dominican-Brazilian vocalist Zarina De Marco.
Also read: They’re Twins, They’re Geniuses, and They’re Just 11—Is This the UK’s Brainiest Family?
The song, celebrated for its bold energy and cultural fusion, was spotlighted during the ceremony held in Los Angeles, marking a milestone for South Asian artists in the international music industry. The American Music Awards nomination earlier this year was already a historic first for Kumari. On Monday, she achieved a significant milestone by bringing home the trophy. Her win underscores her global appeal and highlights the growing influence of diverse voices in mainstream Western media. The Arcane project specifically chose Kumari because of her Indian heritage, which aligns with the show’s inclusion of the Indian character Sevika.
Also read: Bladder Transplant Breakthrough: Indian-Origin Surgeon Rewrites Medical History
While actress Amirah Vann voiced the character, the musical team turned to Kumari for sonic inspiration, citing her ability to create powerful music that authentically reflects her cultural identity. “This victory is deeply personal,” Kumari told the press following the award ceremony. “I’ve always felt like an underdog. One of my lyrics says, ‘All eyes are on the underdog,’ and today that belief became a reality. I’m proud to represent India on this stage.” The song incorporates traditional Indian elements, including the use of thaal, a percussion instrument that gave the track a distinctly South Asian feel. Raja Kumari emphasized that this fusion was intentional, allowing her to represent her roots while pushing boundaries in the global music landscape.
Also read: Her ‘Feelings Thermometer’ Stunned Teachers — Now This Student Is Earning Major Honors
Renegade (We Never Run) received widespread acclaim and climbed into the top 10 of Spotify’s Viral 50 global chart. Despite modest expectations, the song’s success has invigorated Kumari’s determination. “I’ve always seen myself as a global artist. This award reminds me that there’s still more work to be done,” she added. The singer-songwriter’s achievement has sparked celebration among her fans in India. Already a familiar name in Bollywood, Kumari has worked on several major projects, including Shah Rukh Khan’s film Jawan. She’s also contributed music to Zero, Gully Boy, and tracks with artists like Sidhu Moose Wala, Guru Randhawa, and Lindsey Stirling.
A Grammy-nominated artist, Raja Kumari was born on January 11, 1986, to Telugu parents and is now based in Claremont, California. Her songwriting credits include collaborations with global stars such as Fall Out Boy, Gwen Stefani, Fifth Harmony, and Iggy Azalea. Her track “Change Your Life” with Azalea led to her Grammy nod, while her work on Fall Out Boy’s “Centuries” earned her a BMI Pop Award. With this historic AMA win, Raja Kumari has not only made her mark as the first Indian-origin musician to achieve the honour, but also opened the doors wider for South Asian representation in global music.
