Kanan Tiwari
3 min readNov 17, 2023

In the vibrant tapestry of the global music scene, one name that stands out is Vardaan Arora, a multi-talented Indian recording artist, songwriter, and actor based in the bustling metropolis of New York. Born on April 22, 1992, in the heart of India, New Delhi, Arora’s journey from the classrooms of The British School to the prestigious New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts has been nothing short of remarkable.

Arora’s foray into the world of pop music was marked by the release of his debut single, “Feel Good Song,” in 2016. This self-penned track quickly made waves, finding its place on Spotify’s Viral 50 chart, catapulting Arora into the spotlight. However, it was in 2018, with the release of “What If,” that Arora truly began to capture attention. Billboard recognized him as one of the “12 LGBTQ Musicians to Discover During Pride Month,” solidifying his status among the emerging openly queer artists.

The artist’s discography is a testament to his eclectic style, featuring hits like “Famous,” “thirty under thirty,” and “January,” each a unique expression of his artistry. Collaborating with songwriter Natalia Lalwani, Arora’s music transcends boundaries, seamlessly blending pop sensibilities with poignant lyrics. His musical journey culminated in the release of his debut EP, “Heartbreak On The Dance Floor,” in August 2020, a project that he described as a statement-making endeavor. The EP, characterized by pure synth-pop and a well-defined ’80s aesthetic, received acclaim from Billboard, stating that Arora had indeed succeeded in making a significant impact on the industry.

Beyond the realm of music, Vardaan Arora has showcased his versatility as an actor. His involvement in Netflix’s psychological thriller, “Gypsy,” alongside acclaimed actress Naomi Watts, added another dimension to his artistic repertoire. In 2019, he secured a role in the film “Wrong Turn,” further solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry.

However, Arora is not just an artist; he is a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ community. His openness about his identity and experiences has made him a beacon of representation, especially in an industry where diversity and inclusion continue to be significant talking points. In addition to his advocacy for the LGBTQ community, Arora has bravely shared his struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder, aiming to raise awareness about mental health issues.

In an era where artists often shy away from authenticity, Vardaan Arora stands tall as an individual unafraid to be himself. His willingness to explore and share the intricacies of his personal journey, both as an artist and an individual, sets him apart. As he continues to make waves in the industry, Arora’s commitment to being a voice for the marginalized and a symbol of authenticity is indeed making a lasting impact.

Vardaan Arora’s journey is a testament to the power of embracing one’s true self in the pursuit of art and advocacy. From his debut single to the release of his EP, Arora has consistently pushed boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the music and entertainment landscape. As he continues to navigate the complex interplay of identity, artistry, and advocacy, one can only anticipate that his future endeavors will be as compelling and authentic as the artist himself.

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