Zohran Mamdani becomes New York City’s first Muslim and Indian-American mayor
Mamdani’s victory symbolizes diversity, immigrant empowerment, and the changing face of U.S. politics.
Zohran Mamdani becomes New York City’s first Muslim and Indian-American mayor
New York. Making history, Zohran Mamdani has won the New York City mayoral election. Born in Africa, of Indian descent and a former hip-hop rapper, Zohran has now become the first Muslim and Indian-American mayor of America’s largest city.Zohran was born in Kampala, the capital of Uganda. His father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a professor of anthropology at Columbia University, while his mother, Mira Nair, is an internationally renowned film director who brought Indian cinema global recognition with films like Monsoon Wedding, Mississippi Masala, and The Namesake.Zohran, who moved to New York with his family at the age of seven, became involved in social work while studying there and pursued politics. He earned a degree in Africana Studies from Bowdoin College, Maine. In his youth, he was known as a hip-hop rapper under the name “Young Cardemum.” His song, “Nani,” which he composed in honor of his grandmother, remains popular on social media.Zohran’s political journey began in 2020 when he was elected to the New York Assembly. As a member of the House of Representatives from Queens, he introduced several landmark initiatives for the public—such as proposing free bus rides and banning organizations supporting Israeli settlements.
A Young Leader with a Progressive Mind
The 33-year-old Mamdani won the election with his leftist and pro-people agenda. He ran with promises to increase taxes on the wealthy, protect the rights of immigrants, and provide affordable housing for everyone. His message of clean and honest politics resonated with young people and ordinary citizens.
Clear Stance on the Palestinian Issue
Zohran openly spoke out in support of Palestine, calling the violence in Gaza a “crime against humanity.” While his opponents made this a point of controversy, New York’s nearly 800,000 Muslim voters wholeheartedly supported him.
An Inspiration in His Personal Life
Zohran’s wife, Rama Duwaiji, is a Syrian-American artist and illustrator whose work has been published in publications such as The New Yorker, the BBC, Apple, and the Washington Post. The two met on a dating app and married in early 2025 at the New York City Clerk’s office.Zohran Mamdani’s victory is not only a political achievement, but also a symbol of diversity, equality, and the strength of the immigrant community. In his speech, he said:
“I want to be mayor of a city that gives equal respect to every religion, every color, and every voice.”
This victory is being seen as the beginning of a new era in New York City’s history—where a young leader from an immigrant background is changing the direction of world politics with his ideas and dedication.
✨Zohran Mamdani,New thinking, new hope, a new New York.
