Beginning singing and performing when she was just 5 years old, Aditi is not your average American pop singer. The 17-year-old Indian-American girl is classically trained, not only in Indian music, but also in Western contemporary pop. Beginning performing live in the ancient temples of India, and the big Bollywood Shows, Aditi calls America home, where she has become a rapidly rising role model for young girls not only in the U.S but around the world. Exactly how and why did it all happen?

Her name itself—Aditi, is a special Indian name meaning an Angel. It is also, ironically, a slang word for a girl who is picked on, but is beautiful, and a surprise gift to the world, with her smile being the greatest smile of any female. Not fitting the age-old Hollywood trend of suffering for beauty with starving or other means, Aditi is every girl across America—and the world. A normal teenager, with passion in her heart, shouting to be heard—and above all—respected.

Smashing stereotypes, phobias, and discrimination with that magical smile, this 17-year-old girl next door is also, in a way—anything but ordinary. There is after all—that voice. Aditi reveals, “I have always loved to sing, it just completes me. Every time I'm performing, it feels like I am surrounded by magic!” She confesses, “Singing is what I wanted to do since I was a kid. It has always been my dream to have my own album, and to share it with the world. I am thankful now that finally that dream is coming true. And I want to remind kids out there everywhere, your dreams can come true too. Just believe in yourself and follow through!”

Aditi admits about her early start, “Growing up as a child for me was really great. I moved to America at an early age, so I got to see many places in the U.S. over the years. The happiest time I can remember as a child was when I performed for the first time.” She loves California, which she calls home, where she says “Everything is great here! I love the weather here, and the people!” Yet she still also remains strong to her roots in India. “I love the traditions they have for every festival in India,”she says, “Everything there is very grand, especially the temples! And I love Bollywood music, especially Asha Bhosle, who creates such beautiful variations in her voice!”

Serving as a role model for kids out there, Aditi says, “I actually think the biggest problem in my generation is that too many of us are addicted to our phones and electronic devices. I’m not perfect with this myself, but I like to get out in the world and see people. I also like interior decorating, showing my own style; and cooking; I make a great pasta!”

Rosa Parks has greatly influenced the young singer, teaching her freedom and independence as a female and minority. And Mahatma Gandhi has also had a profound impact on Aditi, stating, “Gandhi has taught me that if you fight for what’s right and never give up, you will definitely achieve anything you want one day!” She adds, “Non-violence is the other most important thing I have learned from Gandhi.”

Aditi’s spirituality informs her worldview and mission. “The world, to me,“ she says “is a place to explore wonderful things that God has created for us. God created this beautiful World for us to live in, and can protect us from any harm in our way. I’m here with my music to spread that wisdom of Parks and Gandhi—and to spread that love.”