Pranysqa Mishra: America’s Got Talent’s semi-finalist singing her way to stardom

(October 20, 2024) “Yes, America’s got talent indeed—and a lot of it is coming from India,” tweeted Anand Mahindra, the billionaire businessman and chairman of the Mahindra Group, after witnessing the performance of Pranysqa Mishra on America’s Got Talent. In the world of child prodigies, few have shone as brightly as nine-year-old Pranysqa, an Indian-origin singing sensation from Florida. Her extraordinary voice has captured the hearts of millions across the United States and Canada. Her unforgettable performances on America’s Got Talent not only earned her a standing ovation but also the coveted Golden Buzzer from judge Heidi Klum, propelling her into the global spotlight.

While her AGT performance is the most recent in a string of achievements, it’s far from her first time in the limelight. Pranysqa has already performed at major sporting events, including singing the American national anthem at the NBA United Soccer League, NHL, and NCAA Men and Women’s Basketball games in New York, as well as during the Billie Jean King World Cup for Team USA. Earlier this year, in May, Pranysqa sang God Bless America by Celine Dion during the Memorial Day Commemorative celebrations. She even made headlines in Canada for her stirring rendition of the Canadian national anthem, which earned her an invitation to sing at a Canadian Parliament meeting.

Pranysqa Mishra singing at the commencement of one of the sporting events

For the Indian diaspora, Pranysqa’s rise to fame strikes a chord as her journey reflects the broader narrative of Indian-origin talent making waves across the world. As she rises to fame, Pranysqa’s success shows how even the younger generation in the diaspora is making Indian communities worldwide proud, contributing to their collective achievements abroad.

America’s Got Talent moments

America’s Got Talent is one of the most-watched and beloved talent competitions on U.S. television, and the Global Indian singing sensation made the 19th season, aired between May and September, truly memorable. This season also saw an 11-year-old guitarist from Chennai, Maya Neelakantan, rise to fame.

Pranysqa’s talent, described as raw and mesmerizing, has drawn praise from some of the most influential voices in the world. Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra Group, took to social media to express his admiration. “For the second time within the past two weeks, a young—VERY young—woman of Indian origin has rocked the stage at AGT with raw talent that is simply astonishing. And this time, it’s Pranysqa Mishra, just NINE years old! Damn, I had tears too when they called her grandmother,” he remarked.

Pranysqa’s performance of River Deep, Mountain High by Tina Turner in the qualifying round was nothing short of electrifying. Her powerful voice stunned the judges, with Simon Cowell calling her “a natural-born performer.” Heidi Klum echoed his sentiments, saying, “You are a force of nature! I cannot wait to see where your journey takes you.”

Family sacrifices

Pranysqa’s journey to fame hasn’t been without its challenges. Born to Indian parents who relocated from Toronto to Tampa in search of better opportunities for their talented daughter, her family made significant sacrifices. Her father left behind his job in Canada, while her mother gave up her 16-year career, making a decision to relocate to the United States in 2022 with hope and determination.

This narrative of sacrifice resonates with countless immigrant families who have faced similar choices—moving to new countries, often leaving behind well-established careers, in pursuit of a better future for their children. 

“I believe the United States offers more recognition and opportunities for someone like me,” the Florida Virtual School student shared during an interview. “My parents’ support and their sacrifices have made all the difference. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Pranysqa Mishra with her family

Singing since two

Though only at the beginning of her journey, Pranysqa’s passion for music has been lifelong. “I’ve been singing since I was two years old,” she recalled. “One of my favourite childhood memories is when I was chosen to dance on stage during a Lion King performance at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I was just three years old, but the thrill of being on stage was unforgettable. That’s when I knew I wanted to perform for the rest of my life,” said the singer who started gaining media attention since the age of six.

Pranysqa’s list of influences includes who’s who of musical legends: Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, and Tina Turner. “I want to be as great as they were,” she said. “Their voices, their stories—they inspire me every day.”

Pranysqa Mishra with Heidi Klum is a German-American judge of AGT

Looking ahead – a dream in the making

As she continues to rise in fame, Pranysqa is aware that the road ahead will not always be smooth, but her family’s support, coupled with her determination, keeps her grounded. “I know I have a lot to learn, but I am ready to give my best. My parents have given up so much for me, and I want to make them proud.”

With an already impressive resume and a voice that belies her young age, Pranysqa Mishra is poised to take the world by storm. “I will keep nurturing my skills and following my dreams,” she said with determination. With hard work and the support of her loved ones, the prodigy dreams of making an indelible mark in the world of music.

As the young singer embarks on the next chapter of her journey, one thing is certain: the world will be watching, and listening, closely—especially the proud diaspora community, cheering her on at every step.

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