Vidya Vox, a 28-year-old Indo-American musician, has gained popularity on YouTube for her unique blend of Indian and Western music. Her smash hits, such as 'Tamil Born Killa' and 'Kutthu Fire', showcase her signature style of mashing up Bollywood and Tamil songs with Western pop. In her recent video, Vidya opens up about her family, upbringing, and personal struggles, sharing her story of mental health struggles, racism, and an abusive father.
Vidya, born Vidya Iyer, talks about her training in Carnatic music since the age of five and how she grew up in two different worlds. At home, she was immersed in Indian culture, listening to Indian music and eating traditional food, while at school, she was exposed to Western music and culture. This dichotomy was a result of her desire to blend in with her white classmates, leading to a sense of disconnection from her Indian heritage.
Vidya reveals that she and her sister faced bullying at school for being brown-skinned and for the food they ate. The video takes a dramatic turn as it depicts the abusive household Vidya grew up in, where her father was controlling and abusive. Vidya shares that she suffered from low self-esteem, anxiety, and felt trapped, but found solace in music. Her mother eventually ran away with her children when Vidya was 16, escaping the abuse.
Vidya sheds light on the stigma surrounding separation from a spouse in Indian society, particularly for women. She shares that her music teacher refused to teach her after her mother left her father. However, music became Vidya's refuge, and she pursued it wholeheartedly. Vidya decided not to attend medical school, instead choosing to pursue music in Mumbai, where her mother supported her.
In Mumbai, Vidya immersed herself in music and began blending Indian and Western styles, creating her signature mashups. She then transitioned to YouTube, where she faced criticism online. Vidya notes that women who step outside the box often face backlash, but she has learned to laugh it off and incorporate it into her music.
Vidya's unique fashion style reflects her cultural fusion, which she describes as "What if Coachella happened in Rajasthan?" She concludes her video by embracing her individuality, stating, "Indian music, western clothes, brown skin and an American accent – that's me. I'm finally free. Free to be me."
The video, uploaded on August 23, showcases Vidya's personal story and has garnered support from her fans. Vidya admits that she was scared to share her story online, but the positive comments have encouraged her, and she is grateful for the love and support.
Key points
- Vidya Vox shares her personal story of mental health struggles, racism, and an abusive father in a recent 360-degree video on her YouTube channel.
- Vidya's music became her refuge from the trauma she experienced, and she has used it as a platform to express herself and connect with others.
- The video has garnered support from fans, with Vidya expressing gratitude for the love and encouragement she has received.
