Zohran Mamdani has made history as New York City's youngest and first Muslim mayor after winning the recent election. In his victory speech, the 34-year-old Democratic socialist invoked India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, quoting his famous "Tryst with Destiny" speech. Mamdani stated, "A moment comes, which comes but rarely, in history when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance."

Mamdani's win marks a significant shift in the city's political landscape, as he defeated former governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. He received 50.4 percent of the vote, with turnout exceeding 2 million voters, the highest since 1969. In his speech, he emphasized that the election results represent a "mandate for change" and expressed hope that New York could lead the way in defeating the current political climate under President Donald Trump.

He declared, "In this moment of political darkness, New York will be the light," acknowledging the support of over 100,000 volunteers who contributed to his campaign. Mamdani's platform included proposals for affordable housing, universal childcare, and raising the minimum wage to $30 an hour by 2030, funded by higher taxes on the wealthy.

Mamdani's victory comes amid fierce criticism of his policies and Muslim identity from various quarters, including conservative media and Trump himself. However, he remains resolute, stating, "I am young, I am Muslim, I am a democratic socialist, and I refuse to apologise for any of this." He will replace Mayor Eric Adams, who opted not to seek re-election. Mamdani's election is seen as a pivotal moment for New York City, which has a budget of around $116 billion and oversees essential services for its 8.5 million residents.