Darina Nikolaeva Yotova, professionally known as DARA, is a Bulgarian pop singer, songwriter, and television personality who rose to prominence after reaching the final of the Bulgarian edition of The X Factor in 2015.
Recognized for her powerful vocals, energetic stage presence, and modern pop sound, Darina Nikolaeva Yotova became one of Bulgaria’s most successful contemporary recording artists. Her breakthrough came with the release of “K’vo Ne Chu,” followed by a string of hit singles that established her as a leading figure in Bulgarian pop music.
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| Wiki Facts & About Data | |
| Real Name: | Darina Nikolaeva Yotova |
| Stage Name: | DARA |
| Born: | September 9, 1998 (age 28 years old) |
| Place of Birth: | Varna, Bulgaria |
| Nationality: | Bulgaria Bulgarian |
| Ethnicity: | Bulgarian |
| Height: | 1.68 m / 168 cm |
| Religion: | Eastern Orthodox Christianity |
| Parents: | Mr. and Katya Ganeva |
| Siblings: | Monika Ganeva and Yordan Ganeva |
| Spouse: | Ervin Ivanov |
| Relationship: | Married |
| Occupation: | Singer, Songwriter, Television Personality |
| Net Worth: | $5 million USD |
Early Life and Education
Darina Nikolaeva Yotova was born on September 9, 1998, in Varna. She is of Bulgarian ethnicity and was raised by Mr. and Katya Ganeva. Darina Nikolaeva Yotova grew up alongside Monika Ganeva and Yordan Ganeva.
From an early age, she displayed a strong interest in music and the performing arts. Darina Nikolaeva Yotova attended the Dobri Hristov National School of Arts in Varna, where she received formal artistic training and developed her vocal abilities. She was raised within Bulgaria’s predominantly Eastern Orthodox Christian cultural tradition.
Career
Darina Nikolaeva Yotova began her professional journey in 2015 when she competed in the Bulgarian version of The X Factor. Mentored by rapper Krisko, she finished third and gained nationwide recognition. Shortly afterward, Darina Nikolaeva Yotova signed with Virginia Records and adopted the stage name DARA.
In 2016, she released her debut single “K’vo Ne Chu,” which became a breakthrough success. Further hits including “Thunder,”“Call Me,” and “Mr. Rover” strengthened her position as one of Bulgaria’s leading pop performers.
Beyond recording music, Darina Nikolaeva Yotova served as a mentor on The Voice of Bulgaria and expanded her presence across television and digital platforms. Her career reached a historic milestone in 2026 when she won the Eurovision Song Contest with “Bangaranga,” becoming the first Bulgarian artist to achieve that distinction.
Awards and Nominations
- Eurovision Song Contest 2026 – Winner
- The X Factor Bulgaria 2015 – Finalist (3rd Place)
Social Media
- Instagram Handle: @darnadude
- YouTube Channel: DARA
- Tiktok handle: @darbiethings
Personal Life
Darina Nikolaeva Yotova, 27 years old, married to Ervin Ivanov, Darina Nikolaeva Yotova has no children yet. Known for her charismatic personality, fashionable image, and strong connection with fans, she continues to balance commercial success with artistic growth.
Darina Nikolaeva Yotova is recognized for her athletic physique, expressive stage performances, and distinctive pop-star image, standing at a height of 1.68 m.
Net Worth
Darina Nikolaeva Yotova has an estimated net worth of approximately $5 million USD. Her wealth is generated through music sales, streaming royalties, concert performances, television appearances, endorsement partnerships, social media collaborations, and commercial brand campaigns.
The success of her recording career, television work, and Eurovision victory has significantly increased her earning power and international visibility.
Discography
Selected Songs
- K’vo Ne Chu
- Thunder
- Call Me
- Mr. Rover
- Bangaranga
Television
- The X Factor Bulgaria (Contestant, 2015)
- The Voice of Bulgaria (Mentor)
Major Achievements
- Third-place finalist on The X Factor Bulgaria
- Signed recording artist with Virginia Records
- Eurovision Song Contest 2026 Winner representing Bulgaria