Raja Kumari. Photo: Courtesy of the artist
Raja Kumari dropped her latest album Kashi to Kailash on Feb. 21, 2025, through her independent label, Godmother Records. But this isn’t just another album for her, it’s a deeply personal and spiritual project that blends traditional Sanskrit chants with modern hip-hop and electronica beats.
Two years ago, when her global tour was unexpectedly canceled, she felt lost. “Nothing made sense and it felt like my dreams were impossible,” she shared in an Instagram post. Seeking answers, she turned to Lord Shiva, asking what her next step should be. “He told me to surrender,” she wrote, marking the beginning of her journey toward this album. She describes Kashi to Kailash as “my humble offering on the altar of Saraswati.” In 28 days, alongside collaborator Nacho Larraza, she wrote, composed, and produced five tracks, terming the whole process a “rebirth.”
Each track carries the weight of ancient Hindu devotional traditions while infused with Raja Kumari’s signature sound. The title track, “Kashi to Kailash,” sets the stage for a journey of transformation. “The Destroyer” reinterprets the Shiv Tandav Stotram. “I Dare Them” channels the strength of the Mrityunjaya Mantra, while “I Worship You” pays tribute to the Lingashtakam. The final track, “Shambo,” blends Sanskrit kirtan with heavy 808 beats.
Raja Kumari has always walked the line between cultures, merging Indian heritage with global music trends. She’s worked with artists like Iggy Azalea, Gwen Stefani, Fifth Harmony, and Divine, and her previous albums, The Bridge (2023) and Bloodline (2019), cemented her place as a force to be reckoned with in the music world. Bollywood fans also know her from her contributions to Zero, Race 3, and Jawan.
Beyond the music, the visuals part of Kashi to Kailash tell a story of their own. The cover was shot by Jayslens, the artwork designed by Aditya Damle, and a powerful Triveni Sangam image was captured by actor Kubbra Sait.
Raja Kumari has been giving fans glimpses into her creative process, sharing behind-the-scenes moments and the spiritual significance behind her work. For her, this album isn’t just about music, it’s about faith, devotion, and trusting the path ahead. She adds in a statement, “This album is an extension of my own spiritual journey, one that I hope resonates in the hearts of all who listen. I just wanted to worship in my own voice,” says Raja Kumari.
Listen to ‘Kashi to Kailash’ below.
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