Who is Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s First Muslim and South Asian Mayor?

Zohran Kwame Mamdani, a 34-year-old state assemblyman from Queens, has made history by becoming New York City’s first Muslim and first South Asian mayor — a political milestone that has energised progressives and challenged the Democratic establishment.

Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic socialist, rose from relative obscurity to national prominence with his sweeping victory in the city’s mayoral election. His left-wing campaign focused on tackling New York’s soaring cost of living, pledging rent freezes, free public buses, city-owned grocery stores and a gradual increase in the minimum wage to $30 an hour by 2030.

“Today we have spoken in a clear voice: hope is alive,” Mamdani told cheering supporters after his win. “Let City Hall, with our compassion and conviction, be the light our city and nation so desperately need.”

Born in Uganda to acclaimed filmmaker Mira Nair and Columbia University scholar Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran moved to New York at the age of seven. A graduate of Bowdoin College in Africana Studies, he previously worked as a housing counsellor helping low-income families avoid eviction — an experience that shaped his political platform.

His campaign resonated deeply with younger and working-class voters, who viewed him as authentic and relatable on social media. However, critics, including President Donald Trump, have labelled him a “radical,” with Trump threatening to withhold federal funds from his administration.

Mamdani’s outspoken support for Palestinians and criticism of Israel have also sparked controversy. He has described Israel as committing genocide in Gaza — remarks that have divided Democrats but strengthened his standing among left-wing voters.