Lara Raj has been making waves on the internet as the freshest young talent at just the age of 19. She was born in Connecticut, raised in New York and has Indian heritage and, queer identity. With a strong voice of representation, she has acquired a place in the international girl group Katseye and has become a role model for South Asian girls and the LGBTQ+ community.
Indian Roots and Musical Journey
Indian-origin pop star Lara often incorporates her culture in her outfits with the addition of bindi, gold jewellery, and a nose ring. She grew up surrounded by music and began producing music as a teenager in her bedroom along with her sister and musician, Rhea Raj.
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“Music is like art to me. This is what I’m supposed to do,” Lara told Vogue India.
She was invited to join a global competition by Hybe and Geffen. She competed with 20 artists for a spot in the international girl group. “The label saw my song covers and suddenly, I was on a plane to LA,” she said.
Inspiration and Advocacy
Lara is more than just a musician. She came out as queer in March during a Weverse livestream. She stated that she knew who she was since she was only eight years old. “I knew I was half a fruitcake when I was like eight, so I really wanted everybody.”
Lara performed in Michelle Obama’s Global Girls Alliance campaign in 2019, inspiring young audiences. She sang ‘Freedom’ along with school girls and Mrs. Obama.
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She talks about her goal of being able to uplift the Indian heritage and community. She calls it her ‘No.1 Mission’.
With talent, pride, and a commitment to representation, Lara continues to stay in the spotlight on social media and promote Indian culture and heritage on a global scale.
