Mamdani’s Win Inspires South Asian, Muslim New Yorkers

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    Zohran Mamdani’s victory in New York City’s Democratic mayoral primary has created waves of enthusiasm, especially among his long-time friend, stand-up comedian Hari Kondabolu. Mamdani managed to surprise the political world by winning Tuesday’s ranked-choice election, overcoming his toughest rival, former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, who conceded defeat.
    Mamdani, a staunch democratic socialist who began his campaign from a seemingly trailing position, is now poised to potentially become the first Asian American and Muslim mayor of New York City. Originally from Kampala, Uganda, where he was born to Indian parents, Mamdani moved to the United States at the age of 7 and obtained U.S. citizenship in 2018.
    For Kondabolu, the current scenario is both a thrilling and emotional moment. “It’s exciting to see New York, a city many of us call home because of its diversity, embrace change. Post-9/11, we asked ourselves if this city truly belonged to us too. Now, 25 years later, it’s a completely different landscape because of this historic election,” Kondabolu expressed.
    Mamdani’s campaign has resonated deeply with Indian, Pakistani, and other South Asian minority groups, as well as the broader Muslim community—even with those who might not agree with his policies. His rise is seen as a beacon of hope, especially in a city that saw a surge in racial tensions and xenophobia in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terror attacks.
    The primary captured the attention of South Asians, including New York’s more than 300,000 South Asian residents who find inspiration in Mamdani’s remarkable ascent. Kondabolu noted that his mother was particularly motivated to rally support for Mamdani, highlighting how personal and invigorating this political awakening has been for many.
    Snigdha Sur, CEO of The Juggernaut, an online platform focusing on South Asian issues, noticed that even individuals in India and across the diaspora have closely followed Mamdani’s journey, garnering pride from afar. Nonetheless, his past comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi—whom he labeled a “war criminal”—have been contentious for some, stemming from the U.S. revocation of Modi’s visa in 2005 concerning his alleged inaction during the 2002 Gujarat riots.
    In Michigan, Thasin Sardar, tracking Mamdani’s political rise, felt an immediate connection with him. “As a Muslim American, this victory restores my faith in people’s ability to look beyond race and religion,” Sardar stated, acknowledging how Mamdani’s religious background and immigrant journey have not hindered his chances.
    Zainab Shabbir, a New York voter active in supporting Mamdani, shared how the election has sparked interest among her family in California and beyond. While Mamdani’s South Asian Muslim identity is significant, Shabbir was more drawn by his vision for the city. After meeting Mamdani at a fundraiser, she described him as amiable and genuine.
    In building his platform, Mamdani didn’t shy away from his Indian and Muslim identity, instead embracing it through campaign videos that subtly incorporate Bollywood influences, earning him praise from other South Asian politicians.
    Tanzeela Rahman, a daughter of Bangladeshi immigrants, felt seen by Mamdani’s outspoken yet relatable approach to addressing economic challenges, like affordable housing, affecting New Yorkers. Although Mamdani had a relatively privileged upbringing, his concern for social justice became apparent early on.
    While some households may not directly benefit from Mamdani’s stance on affordable living, his campaign drew unexpected support from wealthier demographics within the South Asian community, showcasing his ability to connect across economic differences.
    Mamdani’s vocal support of Palestinian causes and his stance on Gaza have not gone unnoticed, garnering backing from pro-Palestinian groups while also stirring debate in the mayoral race. Jewish politicians and activists have endorsed him, though some of his remarks have met opposition.
    Despite predictable backlash from conservative critics who spouted anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant rhetoric, Mamdani’s supporters remain undeterred. They believe that the elements of racism and Islamophobia highlighted during the campaign did not manage to overshadow Mamdani’s achievements, as evidenced by his primary success.
    “There’s a vibrant new generation eager to have their voices heard, advocating robustly not only through votes but by emotionally engaging others in support of this candidacy,” Kondabolu concluded, emphasizing the community’s exceptional display of unity and activism.