If you are connected to politics, you must have heard the name Zohran Mamdani. Yes, at this moment, his name is echoing across the world, including America. This is because he is the first young Muslim leader in New York’s history to make history by winning the primary election. In a city with a Muslim population of 900,000, how he built his strong image is what we are going to tell you in this article. Apart from this, the article also mentions his inspiring story, career, family, and more. So let’s get to know about Zohran Mamdani.
Who is Zohran Mamdani?
Zohran Mamdani is a rising politician of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), currently representing the 36th district in the New York State Assembly. He represents areas such as Astoria, Ditmars-Steinway, and Astoria Heights in Queens. Recently, he won the primary election for the New York mayoral race and has presented a strong candidacy for the November mayoral election. In this election, he defeated former governor Andrew Cuomo.
Early Life and Family Background
- Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born on October 18, 1991, in Kampala, Uganda.
- His father, Mahmood Mamdani, is a Ugandan scholar of Indian origin, political analyst, and professor at Columbia University, known for his contributions to African studies.
- His mother, Mira Nair, is a renowned Indian film director, famous for movies like Salaam Bombay!, Monsoon Wedding, and The Namesake.
- Zohran’s middle name “Kwame” was chosen by his father to honor Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, symbolizing a commitment to global and social justice values.
- He spent his childhood across three continents:
- Lived in Kampala until age 5.
- Moved to Cape Town, South Africa, where his father taught at the University of Cape Town; attended St. George’s Grammar School.
- At age 7, his family relocated to New York City, first living in Morningside Heights and later Astoria, Queens — a major influence on his later life.
Educational Background
Attended Bank Street School for Children, followed by the prestigious Bronx High School of Science.
In school:
- Formed the school’s first cricket team.
- Advocated for student rights.
Graduated from Bowdoin College in Maine with a degree in Africana Studies.
Actively involved in social justice during college:
- Member of Students for Justice in Palestine.
- Emerged as a strong voice for equality and justice.
Zohran Mamdani: Journey from Rapper to Politician
Few people know that before stepping into politics, Zohran Mamdani was also a rapper. He tried his hand at rap music under the names “Young Cardamom” and “Mr. Cardamom” and in 2019, released a song called “Nani” with famous actress and writer Madhur Jaffrey. His music wasn’t just about beats and rhymes — it was a voice for social issues, cultural identity, and change. For him, rap was a medium through which he could bring forward voices that often remain unheard.
In his mother Mira Nair’s famous film Queen of Katwe, he not only contributed to the music direction but was also part of the soundtrack. One of his songs was included in the film’s album, which was also nominated for a Merit Award.
Entry into Politics and Achievements
Zohran Mamdani’s political journey wasn’t a sudden decision, but the result of long-term social experience and ground-level work. In 2017, he took his first political step by joining the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). That was the time he realized that change cannot come just through slogans, but by entering the system.
While saving homes in the streets of Queens, he reached the conclusion that policies should not be made only for the rich but for the common people as well. With this thinking, Zohran contested the New York State Assembly election in 2020 and won. He was re-elected unopposed in 2022 and 2024. Currently, he represents the 36th district of Queens.
His victory made history:
- He became the first South Asian-American
- The first Ugandan-American
- And the third Muslim to be a part of the New York Assembly.
His presence not only expanded the scope of political representation but also ignited new hope, especially among youth, immigrant communities, and marginalized groups. His achievements include a $450 million debt relief for taxi drivers, a free bus pilot program, and stopping a polluting power plant. In 2021, he held a 15-day hunger strike in support of taxi drivers, reflecting his dedication and sacrifice.
Historic Turn in the 2025 NYC Mayoral Race
Zohran Mamdani filed his candidacy for the NYC mayoral race in October 2024. In June 2025, he surprised everyone by defeating former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary. Now he stands on the verge of becoming New York City’s first Muslim and Indian-American mayor.
His election strategy was completely different from traditional politics. He engaged the youth, used social media as a powerful tool, and turned the true voice of New York — its diversity — into his strength. His rallies were conducted in languages like Hindi, Urdu, Bengali, and Spanish, showing how deeply connected he is with every community, every street, and every heart. His victory received support from progressive leaders like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Bernie Sanders. He also had the support of one of New York’s largest organizations — the “United Federation of Teachers” (UFT).
- Zohran’s agenda was just as revolutionary:
- Extra tax on New York’s richest 1%
- Rent freeze for poor and middle class
- Free childcare for working women
- Gender recognition and equality policies for the LGBTQ+ community
Zohran Mamdani is not just a leader — he has become the face of a movement that says: “Now we don’t just need big names, we need big thinking.”
Zohran Mamdani’s Personal Life
Zohran Mamdani’s political image is as powerful as it is interesting. He officially gained U.S. citizenship in 2018. He is a Shia Muslim, and this religious identity has been a source of both faith and inspiration for social justice. In 2025, he married Rama Duwaji (a Syrian-American artist), whom he met on the Hinge app. They live in Astoria, Queens, and are big fans of the New York Mets, Giants, and Arsenal football club.
Rama Duwaji, a 27-year-old illustrator and animator, works for publications like The New Yorker and The Washington Post. Her art focuses on social and political issues, aligning with Zohran’s ideology. During the campaign, when Rama was targeted by right-wing trolls, Zohran praised her on Instagram, writing: “Rama is not just my wife, but an incredible artist who should be recognized on her own.”
Controversy and Bold Statements
Zohran has made headlines with his outspoken views. In May 2025, during a mayoral forum, he called Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi a “war criminal” and criticized his role in the 2002 Gujarat riots. This statement sparked controversy in India, but Zohran stood by his words and said he will continue to fight for human rights. His boldness makes him popular among New York’s progressive and immigrant communities, though he also faces Islamophobic threats.
Conclusion
Zohran Mamdani’s story is of a young man who learned from three cultures, witnessed struggles, and emerged as a symbol of hope. His education has not just been about degrees but also about experiences. He has lived his values through his name — and perhaps that’s why today, he has become the name of a new wave in New York politics.
1. Who is Zohran Mamdani?
Ans: Zohran Mamdani is a New York State Assembly member representing Astoria, Queens.
2. What is Zohran Mamdani’s background?
Ans: Zohran was born in Kampala, Uganda, and later moved to South Africa and then New York. He comes from a globally renowned family — his father is Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani, and his mother is Indian filmmaker Mira Nair.
3. What did Zohran study in college?
Ans: Zohran studied Africana Studies at Bowdoin College in Maine, where he was actively involved in student-led social justice movements.
4. What kind of community work has Zohran done?
Ans: Before entering politics, Zohran worked as a Foreclosure Prevention Counselor, helping New Yorkers facing housing crises due to bank or developer action.
5. Which political party does Zohran Mamdani belong to?
Ans: Zohran is a member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and runs on a progressive Democratic platform.
Will he become New York’s first Muslim, Indian-African-origin mayor? Only time will tell, but his story certainly gives us a reason to be inspired starting today.
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