As New York City’s mayoral election approaches on November 4, Democrat candidate Zohran Mamdani finds himself in controversy.
Recently, Mamdani sparked backlash after visiting several temples while wearing shoes, a move that drew criticism from netizens.
The candidate, who has expressed pride in his “Hindu heritage,” is now facing scrutiny over his actions during the religious visits.
Hindus for Zohran. Deer for Leopard.
— Ram (@ramprasad_c) October 8, 2025
US Politicians quip that only thing Indian Americans ask in exchange for their support is a selfie. They didn't even ask him to remove his shoes inside the Temple. pic.twitter.com/oo5gBsFpcc
Mamdani on his Hindu heritage
Earlier this week, Mamdani stated, “I am proud that I would be the first Indian-American mayor of this city.”
He further added, “he grew up with a keen understanding of what Hinduism means, and those traditions and values, whether it’s Raksha Bandhan or Diwali, have taught me so much about the values I hold dear today.”
Mamdani also acknowledged the role of his family and their shared traditions in fostering a strong sense of pride in his Indian-American identity.
Netizens slam Mamdani
A user on X noted, “Hindus for Zohran. Deer for Leopard. US Politicians quip that only thing Indian Americans ask in exchange for their support is a selfie. They didn’t even ask him to remove his shoes inside the Temple.”
Another claimed, “Even Muslims do not even wear footwear in their masjid and he does it in a temple.” “Why the f is he wearing shoes inside a temple (especially when everyone else is barefoot)? Who are these braindead “believers” who allowed him to do this?,” questioned another.
“This obsessive nature of our Indian Hindu diaspora for so-called celebrity validation highlights their false sense of secularhood. It only indicates the superficial nature of their engagement with the faith & their super strong affiliation with publicity, money & power,” claimed another user.
“he is wearing shoes in that place of worship disregarding everyone else being barefoot,” added a netizen.