Zohran Mamdani, New York City’s freshly elected mayor, has scripted history after becoming the first Indian-American, first Muslim, and first Democratic-Socialist mayor. With an active social media presence, appealing strongly to his fellow Indian-American voters through Bollywood references, Mamdani quickly climbed the algorithm ranks.
Standing out from the crowd in his minimal personal style, he couldn’t shy away from fashion critics. Often spotted in smart button-down shirts, tailored jackets, with streetwear-inspired looks, Mamdani stayed away from looking extremely formal. With a subtle nod to his South Asian influences, his silver rings have remained a constant feature of his campaign.
Significance of Mamdani’s silver rings
Rooted in family values and driven by his Indian heritage, Mamdani has given huge significance to cultural symbols during his electoral campaign. Be it the sacred thread around his wrist or the three silver rings on the Mayoral-elect foreman, they often stand out from his opponents. Speaking to the New York Times, Mamdani told them they are an integral part of his personal style. “That is just who I am. It’s who I’ve been before I decided to run for mayor, and who I’ll be after I’m the mayor of New York City.”
The ring he wears on his right index finger is a family heirloom from his paternal grandfather, who acquired it during a trip to Syria in 2007, reported NYT. “It is something that was blessed and something that I continue to wear,” he said, adding, “It was my way of keeping him in my life.”
The other ring on his right hand was brought back by Rama Duwaji, his wife, from hr trip to Tunisia. This special focus on a mayoral candidate’s hands comes from the tradition of politicians greeting their voters, giving them something to relate to, and portraying themselves as highly approachable. He also used to wear another ring, apart from his wedding band, on the pinkie finger, designed by his wife.
Mamdani’s Gen-Z appeal
Zohran Mamdani’s advocacy for affordable housing, childcare, public transportation, and his bold stand for social justice have presented his campaign in a progressive light. Leveraging X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram widely, he has tapped into the most popular platforms used by Gen-Z, making him a transparent and accessible leader.
His fashion plays a huge role in connecting him with heritage, while also making him a standout choice from the others. The streetwear elements in Mamdani’s personal style, like sneakers, flexible style, and his ‘BTS’ moments, grabbed the attention of youthful voters.
With his electoral win, he brings hope and activism and channels practical solutions and aims to address grassroots solutions. His authentic engagement with social media trends quickly gave him the political leverage over young voters, symbolising a new generation of leadership.
