It’s been a long journey for Raja Kumari to get her critical due in hip-hop, and you can see her replete with glimpses of progress everyday. Capturing this dynamic woman’s desire of a dream home who’s real name is Svetha Yallapragada Rao was the best opportunity for us to know her up, close and personal. Yes, she’s born to Telugu parents from Andhra Pradesh and now she’s having a historic run in the world of hip-hop! It was interesting to have a candid chat with her on a completely different subject, moving away from music. Asking her about the homeownership, she excitedly speaks, “I bought my first ever home while i was in college—the best part was everyone around me were residing at a rented place and i had my own property. Isn’t it a wonderful feeling? I have always been into customising my homes on my own, did that as well. The most intriguing part in my first home was the studio and having a spacious place is always the trend for me in all my homes.”
Maintenance, quality, and energy efficiency are some of the reasons but there are many more arguments made by her for new home. For example, she says, “I am definitely not a minimalist — i am definitely over the top kinda girl. Cleanliness will be my first priority, nonetheless I love to mix eras. Empty mirrors & coffee tables, so fine nah. Or maybe, some artistic work mixed up with morden finishing!” During the conversation, we learnt how it’s worth spending additional funds to transform the home into one that fits the needs for this south-asian woman.
She continued, “Currently, i have a home in Los Angeles but i see myself having another home in Mumbai and Goa one day. An open concept would describe the way I see my upcoming dream homes in these bustling cities. It’s the dominant architectural trend! This will give the vibe of a communal space to me, and free-flowing. I do believe in vaastu, so would want it to be according to that as well. It will add more value to it! Asthetics wise also, openness is good for the eyes. Adding advanced appliances with a modular kitchen would be cherry on the cake for me for hosting with a scenic view.”
This seems like she’s not okay with 1970s era shag carpet or the outdated kitchen appliances, funnily. In addition, there was a time when she found it tough and lonely as a South Indian girl growing up in Los Angeles but today she possess her own space there & nobody has a say in it. Furthermore, she added, “Let me enlighten you on why did I choose Goa—its spiritual too. Everytime I go there, I feel rejuvenated. Location, style, vibes and lighting is something to look for always in a dream home.
I love mixing east and west, so you’ll see designs accordingly. So is my career and fashion sense, you know what I mean?” We also got to know that she really admires Anil Kapoor’s home, because, “I once happened to visit his home for a diwali party. The whole home is so beautiful. They had tonnes of paintings and mind-blowing flower arrangement, it blew my mind. I dream of a similar florist who changes the flower decor in my house the same way (she laughs).”
