The story of Sriya Lenka, a young woman from the industrial city of Rourkela in Odisha, now performing on global stages as a member of the K-pop girl group Black Swan, is nothing short of a modern-day fairytale. Her path from local dance competitions to the heart of Seoul's vibrant music scene highlights a remarkable journey of passion, cultural exchange, and determination. As part of a deliberately multicultural ensemble, Lenka is not just a performer but a symbol of K-pop's expanding global footprint.
The Audition That Gave Her Wings
Sriya's introduction to K-pop began like that of many fans: through friends at school. During the COVID-19 pandemic, her consumption of K-pop content increased, fueling a desire to try something new. When auditions for the group Black Swan opened, she saw it as a chance to "get a new pair of wings." What began as a tentative attempt quickly transformed into a serious pursuit as she discovered profound joy in singing and dancing, and in sharing that energy with a potential audience.
Her musical exploration started around 2019 with legendary groups like BTS, EXO, and Girls' Generation. Interestingly, she maintains a fondness for older K-pop music, which continues to inspire her. While her parents were supportive, they were initially confused by the unfamiliar world of K-pop. Her father, after some doubt, gave her his blessing with the words, "Do whatever you want, I just want you to have a better life." This parental support became a cornerstone of her courageous leap.
Black Swan's Philosophy and Future Plans
At its core, Black Swan represents a philosophy that transcends traditional K-pop boundaries. The group prides itself on being a multicultural collective, using music as a universal bridge. "Black Swan is not about nationality, age or colour – it's about uniqueness and talent that brings people together," Sriya explains. This ethos is reflected in their sound, which blends diverse influences to create an inclusive and global musical identity. Their aim is to showcase diversity not just in their lineup but in their music itself, hoping to bring audiences from different backgrounds closer through shared emotion and powerful performances.
Looking ahead, the group has ambitious plans. "We have many plans and are still in talks about new projects," Lenka reveals. Fans can expect to see different facets of Black Swan, with worldwide tours being a definite priority. The goal is to travel and perform wherever opportunities arise, spreading their unique message.
Staying Rooted and Dreaming Big
Despite her international fame, returning home to India remains a deeply cherished experience for Sriya. The best part? "Home food – I missed it so much," she says with evident warmth. She also treasures the culture, conversations, and the simple happiness of spending quality time with her family in Rourkela.
Her ambitions extend beyond music. She has expressed a clear desire to act in a K-drama, stating, "Of course. I'd love to be a part of a K-drama." While discussions are ongoing and nothing is confirmed, she remains open to any opportunities that come her way from Korea, suggesting that her fans might one day see her on their television screens in a dramatic role.
A Message for the Next Generation
As a trailblazer for Indian aspirants in a field not yet considered mainstream in the country, Sriya Lenka's journey is inherently inspirational. She believes music itself is a powerful motivator—it can improve your day, calm you, or push you forward. For young girls, especially those looking to carve unconventional paths, her advice is heartfelt and simple: do it for yourself. "If you're enjoying what you do, it naturally shows," she advises, urging artists to trust themselves even during inevitable moments of self-doubt. "Everyone questions themselves – but having faith can change everything."
In a rapid-fire round, Sriya shared some of her personal favorites:
- Favorite K-dramas: Coffee Prince, Mr Queen, and Welcome to Waikiki.
- Favorite Korean dish: Dak-galbi, a spicy stir-fried chicken dish.
- Favorite K-pop groups: EXO and BTS, who inspire her deeply, along with Stray Kids.
Sriya Lenka's story is a testament to where talent, when combined with opportunity and self-belief, can lead. From the streets of Rourkela to the bright lights of Seoul, she is dancing to her own rhythm and inspiring a generation to dream without borders.
