M.I.A.– British singer, producer, designer
M.I.A.’s real name is Mathangi "Maya" Arulpragasam. She was born in the UK on 18 July 1975. Her father participated in the movement to create Tamil Eelam. Maya’s appearance, which conquered the hearts of many fans all over the world, comes from her Indian origins. The singer was born in London but spent her childhood in Sri Lanka. Even though her father didn’t live with the family and never tried to take part in the children’s upbringing, Maya shares his views, has an active public position, and often voices her opinion about politics.
While living on Sri Lanka, Maya attended catholic schools and studied art. At that time, the political situation in India was worsening and the singer’s family decided to move back to London. M.I.A. returned to her homeland in 1986. Her mother found a job as a seamstress and helped Maya finish school. The young woman graduated from Ricards Lodge High School and went on to get a bachelor degree in Arts and Design. In college, Maya showed a serious interest in hip-hop, which she enjoyed since childhood. In the late 1980’s when she just came back from India, the young woman met different hip-hop artists and was inspired by their work.
