Zohran Mamdani’s Speech: India Connect and the Political Rivalry with Trump
Remember the name: M-A-M-D-A-N-I. New York City has ushered in a new era with voters electing Zohran Mamdani as their youngest Mayor. This historic win marks several firsts: the city’s first Muslim mayor, the first Indian-origin Muslim to hold the office, and perhaps the first victory speech to end with “Dhoom Machale.”
Zohran, the son of acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair and Ugandan-Indian scholar Mahmood Mamdani, reflected on his immigrant roots and the power of representation. Quoting Jawaharlal Nehru, he said, “A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new.” The line perfectly captured the spirit of his campaign: a movement built on inclusivity, resilience, and renewal.
In his speech, Zohran spoke passionately about how New York is a city “built by immigrants, powered by immigrants, and now led by one.” The room cheered. He credited his mother for teaching him the importance of telling one’s own story, reminding the crowd that stories shape how the world sees you. Following in her footsteps, he promised to tell his story, not through cinema, but through policy.
However, his filmy connect was visible as the highlight of the night came when “Dhoom Machale” blared through the speakers, sparking excitement among the Indian diaspora. After all, leaves never fall too far from their roots. Soon after, social media lit up, celebrating how a Bollywood track had become an anthem of victory in one of the world’s most powerful cities. It was a symbolic nod to India’s soft power: music and art connecting hearts faster than any political message could.
Meanwhile, not only his concluding song but also Zohran’s Indian roots were also evident throughout his campaign in reels like “Kya Tumne Kisiko Vote Diya?”
But not many would know that before being this youngest Mayor, Mamdani had been a hip hop artist and had musical roots.
Now, Speaking of what really struck the people of the biggest city in the USA could be his commitment to tackling everyday struggles like rising rents, groceries, public transit and healthcare costs. In fact, by his inclusive approach, he struck a chord with both New Yorkers and the global Indian community.
The victory speech also had a political edge. Mamdani didn’t hold back while criticizing President Donald Trump, calling out what he described as “an authoritarian administration” and vowing to confront the city’s twin crises of affordability and inequality. Trump, in response, labeled him “extreme” and warned that he needed to be “a little bit respectful of Washington.”
However, there was a sliver of support for Mamdani from the President. "I hope it works out for New York," Trump said of Mamdani on Wednesday. "We'll help him a little bit, maybe."
In his first press conference as Mayor, Mamdani doubled down on his stance. He said he would “not mince words” when it came to Trump but remained open to dialogue with the administration to discuss priorities like free bus services and rent control.
As Trump wrote on Truth Social, “AND SO IT BEGINS!”, the stage seems set for a new political rivalry. But beyond the headlines and sparring, Zohran Mamdani’s name is now etched in history as the first Indian-origin Muslim Mayor of New York City.