National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

Leader of the Opposition of Sri Lanka, Sajith Premadasa has said that his country has a “special relationship” with India and that “has to be enhanced, has to be promoted and built upon”.&nbsp;The leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party, is on India visit, and earlier met with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and EAM Dr S Jaishankar.&nbsp;Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, he pointed that “India has been the single largest donor to the tune of 4.2 billion US dollars in providing support that has provided some relief (during the economic crisis) to the people of our country, so we are extremely grateful.”&nbsp;On the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement, under review, the top Sri Lankan politician spoke of “competitive advantages” and “quantifiable mutual benefits”,&nbsp;even as he sent a clear message to top Indian investors, that his country’s doors are open wider than ever. Full interview in which he spoke about 13th amendment, Trump’s tariffs, among other things:&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India ties?Sajith Premadasa: The India Sri Lanka relationship is a very important relationship, it’s a relationship, which has spanned across many decades. The historical cultural links bind us together, and it is our fervent and sincere belief that the future prosperity and progress of both our countries are inextricably linked. As such, we would always encourage and support better linkages and relationships spanning all sectors and ensure that this relationship results in both our countries achieving their national objectives, and this relationship results in truths and rich dividends for the people of both our countries.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: India, Sri Lanka working on review of the FTA, what is your sense like?Sajith Premadasa: Free trade agreements have already been signed and are in place. There is a necessity to move forward, we need to progress. Free trade agreements that are based on fundamentally sound principles will result in prosperity and growth that would be mutually beneficial. We should ensure that when we build upon the free trade agreement, that those agreements result in competitive advantages to both our countries and people. When those mutual benefits can be quantified and the quality benefits can be used to persuade the various stakeholders, I think we can progress in a speedy manner. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India’s support to your country during the economic crisis?Sajith Premadasa: Sri Lanka went through triple tragedies, the Easter Sunday terrorist attack, the Covid health disaster, the bankruptcy situation due to ill-devised economic policies. When Sri Lanka was in trouble, when the people were in distress, India supported us, and India continues to support us. India has been the single largest donor to the tune of 4.2 billion US dollars in providing support that has provided some relief to the people of our country, so we are extremely grateful.&nbsp;I think we should base our relationship on authentic understanding of our own diversities in our countries, of our own national identities, and ensure that our roadmaps go hand in hand to bring about prosperity for the people, prosperity for the country, engage in constructive manner in all of the sectors, economic, political, social, educational, health, industrial. Ensure the connectivity is strengthened, and we will support that approach. Sidhant Sibal: What's your sense on the security dimension. In the past, there have been concerns in Delhi over visits of research vessels, especially from China to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka introduced a moratorium as well. So what's your sense like if we have a potential government led by you in the future? What will be your message to New Delhi, Sajith Premadasa:&nbsp; From our perspective, security is established through perpetuation of peace. We need to have peace building. We need to cooperate, and we must have a much broader definition of security. It is not just political, military security, it spans other sectors, economic security, social security. So we have a very broad definition of security. Within that broad definition, if all of the countries that have misunderstandings, that have differing opinions on a variety of global issues, regional issues, in the name of peace building, if one can cooperate, come to understandings, as I see it from recent events, we see that there has been some normalization of relations between India and China. So that is good. That is good for peace. But as far as Sri Lanka and India are concerned, we have a special relationship. That special relationship has to be enhanced, has to be promoted and built upon.&nbsp;But working with India as a special friend, but also working with others, ensures that the security interests of all are protected through peace, through peace building, through peacemaking. That's the approach that we will take.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: What's your sense like when it comes to your country's relationship with China, your country's relationship with India. I know it's a tricky balancing act.Sajith Premadasa:&nbsp;This word balance that comes about if we have these relations at a lower level. No, our relationship with all these countries is at a much higher level, common security, common prosperity, benefit for our peoples. So it's an overarching approach that we have that does not go into petty political issues. We should look at the common interests. Common interests are best served by peace building, by prevalence of peace and security that will result in economic growth, prosperity and prosperity for our people. So what is of utmost importance is to reduce suspicion, have mutual respect, mutual respect for each other's territorial integrity, sovereignty, political independence and its political character.&nbsp;If countries work on those principles in their international state relations, the world would be a better place.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: In terms of the 13th Amendment as the leader of the opposition, what's your sense like? What's your view like?&nbsp;Sajith Premadasa: All I can tell you is our position. Our position has been as always, as mentioned in our manifestos, that we will implement the 13th Amendment.&nbsp;People expect the implementation, not just the north and east. It covers all nine provinces of our country. It has provided political, economic, and social empowerment through provincial governments, and we must ensure that the present law of the land is part of the supreme law of the land, and part of the Constitution is implemented. So there is no need to speculate about our position. We are crystal clear about the fact that we have to implement the 13th Amendment,&nbsp;and we have said so, and we have done so through our pronouncements, our declarations, our proclamations, interviews, and most importantly, through our social contract with the people. That's a political manifesto, and we will continue. Sidhant Sibal: Where do you see your political future in a very evolving Sri Lankan politics? Last year's election was seen as a dramatic break from the past in many senses. Where do you see your future?Sajith Premadasa: I always respect the people of the country, so it's in the hands of the people of our country. It is not where I determine. I cannot dictate terms. I'm a Democrat. I listen to the sentiments, to the wishes of the people, and I respect them, and I walk the talk. I abide by it. Sidhant Sibal: There is a joint opposition protest that is being planned later this month in your country, but your party is perhaps not taking part in it, any reason, any specific reasons, Sajith Premadasa: What happens in our country as far as governance and opposition politics is concerned, I don't think it's right for me to come to India and have discussions regarding those things, but all I can say is, as a proactive opposition, we have addressed the shortcomings of the present policies,&nbsp;policies that have been anti people, and of course, we will stand by the people and ensure that people's rights, human rights, in its broad definition, political, civic, economic, social, cultural, religious and all other rights are protected. It's very important that when we embark on programs, that those programs are done in a coherent manner.&nbsp; What's important is to have a common approach, a coherent strategy. And people want to see the viable alternative, and that viable alternative has to be formulated.It has to be coherent, and that ideology has to be accepted by the people, so at the end of the day, it's the wish of the people, and we will mobilize the forces, the People's forces, at the right time, to ensure that people's grievances are addressed. That the national policies are formulated to serve the interests of the people, rather than the political hierarchy, and we will work according to our own political strategies to achieve those ends.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: We have a government which took charge last year. Do you think that the government has been able to fulfill the key mandate, key demand, key pledges, when it comes to the promises it made during the elections. Are you hopeful that you will be able to meet the money that needs to be returned to the international lenders by 2028,&nbsp; will that deadline be followed? Do you think so?Sajith Premadasa: Well, I can say quite openly that there is a mismatch between declarations that were made and actions that are taking place. I will confine myself to that. 2028 is the year that brings us towards the decision day. That's when our foreign debt obligations have to be fulfilled on a mass scale, on a large scale. In order to do so, we have to have fast economic growth, better foreign exchange reserves, vast improvements in export led growth and export led income, ensure our remittances at a very high level. And most important of all, we need to have mass scale foreign direct investment. So in all of those aspects, we seem to not be achieving according to the requisite targets, and 2028 should not be a repetition of 2022. So we all have to unite as a country to ensure that that social debacle is not repeated, but it's very challenging. The path is full of obstacles, but with a determined approach, with the correct approach, with an authentic economic and development policy, we can achieve our objectives. Those challenges and obstacles are not insurmountable.&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: India can, of course, play an important role as a country that can do a lot of investment in your country. This plan of connectivity, not only in terms of the digital which has been announced, in terms of the financial connectivity, but the physical connectivity, land connectivity?&nbsp;Do you think this project can go forward?Sajith Premadasa: It used to be that global politics was dominated by bipolarism. Now, we live in a multipolar world. In a multipolar world, all are interconnected, not mere interconnectedness. We are interconnected and interdependent. So these interdependencies should be thought of as opportunities, not as challenges, not as obstacles. We must remove ourselves from our parochial, old fashioned position. We have to think anew. We have to be innovative. We have to make sure that we go beyond the traditional framework and start working together so we broadly support connectivity in all its facets. Can be digital. Can be economic. It can be business, entrepreneurship, new technology, MSMEs, the micro, small and medium sized enterprises. Connectivity in the semiconductor business, electronics, where connectivity is very important for Sri Lanka, because we have to go to the next step of our industrialization process.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal: Do you have any sense why this region, the Indian subcontinent, has witnessed these protests which have toppled governments? What's your sense like as a leading politician, as a statesman of this region?&nbsp;Sajith Premadasa: I think it's different from country to country. I think the economic disaster, coupled with pressures and distress that were put on people due to the consequences of terrorist bombing, Easter Sunday bombing, the corona covid crisis, all these came together and created a very, very propitious environment for dissenting opinions to come onto the streets. You had large queues for fuel, for bread, consume items, gas and various other items that are needed to fulfill basic human needs. So Sri Lanka's case, primarily, was predicated upon the economic situation. So it changes from country to country. I think in democracies, this should not be the case. Primarily this takes place because we don't have sound policy making structures and processes that give out positive policy results, because the democracy, the democratic nature and democracies have to be protected. It cannot be subjugated to mob violence or mob rule. However, if the very same democratic systems result in constraining the democratic space. If the youth are not given their proper right to voice their opinions in the democratic structures, then we will have a problem. So it's very important that the democratic structures are strengthened, strengthened to such an extent that we have sound policy making that results in good policies.&nbsp; Sidhant Sibal: Are Trump's tariffs a worry for you?Sajith Premadasa: Certainly, the reciprocal tariff efforts by the United States has created uncertainty, global uncertainty, uncertainty in the economic sectors and uncertainty in the business sectors. So Sri Lanka, for one, needs to approach, and needs to formulate an approach, to work with the US government to ensure that our tariff rates are further reduced. As you may know, a vast majority of our garment exports go to limited destinations, of which the United States is one, along with, the UK and the European Union.&nbsp;So we have a problem having not diversified our trade destinations. So we as a country should ensure that we promote a policy of export market diversification in terms of destinations are concerned, while at the same time working with the US administration and working in a constructive, progressive and productive manner to get the tariff rates that have been imposed, which I believe are 20% to a lower level.

On the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement, under review, the top Sri Lankan politician spoke of “competitive advantages” and “quantifiable mutual benefits”, even as he sent a clear message to top Indian investors, that his country’s doors are open wider than ever.

Leader of the Opposition of Sri Lanka, Sajith Premadasa has said that his country has a “special relationship” with India and that “has to be enhanced, has to be promoted and built upon”. The leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) party, is on India visit, and earlier met with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and EAM Dr S Jaishankar. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, he pointed that “India has been the single largest donor to the tune of 4.2 billion US dollars in providing support that has provided some relief (during the economic crisis) to the people of our country, so we are extremely grateful.” On the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement, under review, the top Sri Lankan politician spoke of “competitive advantages” and “quantifiable mutual benefits”, even as he sent a clear message to top Indian investors, that his country’s doors are open wider than ever. Full interview in which he spoke about 13th amendment, Trump’s tariffs, among other things: Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India ties? Sajith Premadasa: The India Sri Lanka relationship is a very important relationship, it’s a relationship, which has spanned across many decades. The historical cultural links bind us together, and it is our fervent and sincere belief that the future prosperity and progress of both our countries are inextricably linked. As such, we would always encourage and support better linkages and relationships spanning all sectors and ensure that this relationship results in both our countries achieving their national objectives, and this relationship results in truths and rich dividends for the people of both our countries. Sidhant Sibal: India, Sri Lanka working on review of the FTA, what is your sense like? Sajith Premadasa: Free trade agreements have already been signed and are in place. There is a necessity to move forward, we need to progress. Free trade agreements that are based on fundamentally sound principles will result in prosperity and growth that would be mutually beneficial. We should ensure that when we build upon the free trade agreement, that those agreements result in competitive advantages to both our countries and people. When those mutual benefits can be quantified and the quality benefits can be used to persuade the various stakeholders, I think we can progress in a speedy manner. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India’s support to your country during the economic crisis? Sajith Premadasa: Sri Lanka went through triple tragedies, the Easter Sunday terrorist attack, the Covid health disaster, the bankruptcy situation due to ill-devised economic policies. When Sri Lanka was in trouble, when the people were in distress, India supported us, and India continues to support us. India has been the single largest donor to the tune of 4.2 billion US dollars in providing support that has provided some relief to the people of our country, so we are extremely grateful. I think we should base our relationship on authentic understanding of our own diversities in our countries, of our own national identities, and ensure that our roadmaps go hand in hand to bring about prosperity for the people, prosperity for the country, engage in constructive manner in all of the sectors, economic, political, social, educational, health, industrial. Ensure the connectivity is strengthened, and we will support that approach. Sidhant Sibal: What's your sense on the security dimension. In the past, there have been concerns in Delhi over visits of research vessels, especially from China to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka introduced a moratorium as well. So what's your sense like if we have a potential government led by you in the future? What will be your message to New Delhi, Sajith Premadasa: From our perspective, security is established through perpetuation of peace. We need to have peace building. We need to cooperate, and we must have a much broader definition of security. It is not just political, military security, it spans other sectors, economic security, social security. So we have a very broad definition of security. Within that broad definition, if all of the countries that have misunderstandings, that have differing opinions on a variety of global issues, regional issues, in the name of peace building, if one can cooperate, come to understandings, as I see it from recent events, we see that there has been some normalization of relations between India and China. So that is good. That is good for peace. But as far as Sri Lanka and India are concerned, we have a special relationship. That special relationship has to be enhanced, has to be promoted and built upon. But working with India as a special friend, but also working with others, ensures that the security interests of all are protected through peace, through peace building, through peacemaking. That's the approach that we will take. Sidhant Sibal: What's your sense like when it comes to your country's relationship with China, your country's relationship with India. I know it's a tricky balancing act. Sajith Premadasa: This word balance that comes about if we have these relations at a lower level. No, our relationship with all these countries is at a much higher level, common security, common prosperity, benefit for our peoples. So it's an overarching approach that we have that does not go into petty political issues. We should look at the common interests. Common interests are best served by peace building, by prevalence of peace and security that will result in economic growth, prosperity and prosperity for our people. So what is of utmost importance is to reduce suspicion, have mutual respect, mutual respect for each other's territorial integrity, sovereignty, political independence and its political character. If countries work on those principles in their international state relations, the world would be a better place. Sidhant Sibal: In terms of the 13th Amendment as the leader of the opposition, what's your sense like? What's your view like? Sajith Premadasa: All I can tell you is our position. Our position has been as always, as mentioned in our manifestos, that we will implement the 13th Amendment. People expect the implementation, not just the north and east. It covers all nine provinces of our country. It has provided political, economic, and social empowerment through provincial governments, and we must ensure that the present law of the land is part of the supreme law of the land, and part of the Constitution is implemented. So there is no need to speculate about our position. We are crystal clear about the fact that we have to implement the 13th Amendment, and we have said so, and we have done so through our pronouncements, our declarations, our proclamations, interviews, and most importantly, through our social contract with the people. That's a political manifesto, and we will continue. Sidhant Sibal: Where do you see your political future in a very evolving Sri Lankan politics? Last year's election was seen as a dramatic break from the past in many senses. Where do you see your future? Sajith Premadasa: I always respect the people of the country, so it's in the hands of the people of our country. It is not where I determine. I cannot dictate terms. I'm a Democrat. I listen to the sentiments, to the wishes of the people, and I respect them, and I walk the talk. I abide by it. Sidhant Sibal: There is a joint opposition protest that is being planned later this month in your country, but your party is perhaps not taking part in it, any reason, any specific reasons, Sajith Premadasa: What happens in our country as far as governance and opposition politics is concerned, I don't think it's right for me to come to India and have discussions regarding those things, but all I can say is, as a proactive opposition, we have addressed the shortcomings of the present policies, policies that have been anti people, and of course, we will stand by the people and ensure that people's rights, human rights, in its broad definition, political, civic, economic, social, cultural, religious and all other rights are protected. It's very important that when we embark on programs, that those programs are done in a coherent manner. What's important is to have a common approach, a coherent strategy. And people want to see the viable alternative, and that viable alternative has to be formulated.It has to be coherent, and that ideology has to be accepted by the people, so at the end of the day, it's the wish of the people, and we will mobilize the forces, the People's forces, at the right time, to ensure that people's grievances are addressed. That the national policies are formulated to serve the interests of the people, rather than the political hierarchy, and we will work according to our own political strategies to achieve those ends. Sidhant Sibal: We have a government which took charge last year. Do you think that the government has been able to fulfill the key mandate, key demand, key pledges, when it comes to the promises it made during the elections. Are you hopeful that you will be able to meet the money that needs to be returned to the international lenders by 2028, will that deadline be followed? Do you think so? Sajith Premadasa: Well, I can say quite openly that there is a mismatch between declarations that were made and actions that are taking place. I will confine myself to that. 2028 is the year that brings us towards the decision day. That's when our foreign debt obligations have to be fulfilled on a mass scale, on a large scale. In order to do so, we have to have fast economic growth, better foreign exchange reserves, vast improvements in export led growth and export led income, ensure our remittances at a very high level. And most important of all, we need to have mass scale foreign direct investment. So in all of those aspects, we seem to not be achieving according to the requisite targets, and 2028 should not be a repetition of 2022. So we all have to unite as a country to ensure that that social debacle is not repeated, but it's very challenging. The path is full of obstacles, but with a determined approach, with the correct approach, with an authentic economic and development policy, we can achieve our objectives. Those challenges and obstacles are not insurmountable. Sidhant Sibal: India can, of course, play an important role as a country that can do a lot of investment in your country. This plan of connectivity, not only in terms of the digital which has been announced, in terms of the financial connectivity, but the physical connectivity, land connectivity? Do you think this project can go forward? Sajith Premadasa: It used to be that global politics was dominated by bipolarism. Now, we live in a multipolar world. In a multipolar world, all are interconnected, not mere interconnectedness. We are interconnected and interdependent. So these interdependencies should be thought of as opportunities, not as challenges, not as obstacles. We must remove ourselves from our parochial, old fashioned position. We have to think anew. We have to be innovative. We have to make sure that we go beyond the traditional framework and start working together so we broadly support connectivity in all its facets. Can be digital. Can be economic. It can be business, entrepreneurship, new technology, MSMEs, the micro, small and medium sized enterprises. Connectivity in the semiconductor business, electronics, where connectivity is very important for Sri Lanka, because we have to go to the next step of our industrialization process. Sidhant Sibal: Do you have any sense why this region, the Indian subcontinent, has witnessed these protests which have toppled governments? What's your sense like as a leading politician, as a statesman of this region? Sajith Premadasa: I think it's different from country to country. I think the economic disaster, coupled with pressures and distress that were put on people due to the consequences of terrorist bombing, Easter Sunday bombing, the corona covid crisis, all these came together and created a very, very propitious environment for dissenting opinions to come onto the streets. You had large queues for fuel, for bread, consume items, gas and various other items that are needed to fulfill basic human needs. So Sri Lanka's case, primarily, was predicated upon the economic situation. So it changes from country to country. I think in democracies, this should not be the case. Primarily this takes place because we don't have sound policy making structures and processes that give out positive policy results, because the democracy, the democratic nature and democracies have to be protected. It cannot be subjugated to mob violence or mob rule. However, if the very same democratic systems result in constraining the democratic space. If the youth are not given their proper right to voice their opinions in the democratic structures, then we will have a problem. So it's very important that the democratic structures are strengthened, strengthened to such an extent that we have sound policy making that results in good policies. Sidhant Sibal: Are Trump's tariffs a worry for you? Sajith Premadasa: Certainly, the reciprocal tariff efforts by the United States has created uncertainty, global uncertainty, uncertainty in the economic sectors and uncertainty in the business sectors. So Sri Lanka, for one, needs to approach, and needs to formulate an approach, to work with the US government to ensure that our tariff rates are further reduced. As you may know, a vast majority of our garment exports go to limited destinations, of which the United States is one, along with, the UK and the European Union. So we have a problem having not diversified our trade destinations. So we as a country should ensure that we promote a policy of export market diversification in terms of destinations are concerned, while at the same time working with the US administration and working in a constructive, progressive and productive manner to get the tariff rates that have been imposed, which I believe are 20% to a lower level.

On the India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement, under review, the top Sri Lankan politician spoke of “competitive advantages” and “quantifiable mutual benefits”,&nbsp;even as he sent a clear message to top Indian investors, that his country’s doors are open wider than ever.

We have special relationship with India, grateful for the economic support: Sajith Premadasa

President Vladimir Putin has hinted that Moscow could resume its nuclear tests if the United States does the same. Putin's remark, made at a security council meeting in Moscow on Wednesday (Nov 5), came after US President Donald Trump said America will restart its nuclear tests. Moreover, reports said that Putin directed his defence and foreign ministries and security services to "gather information" on the same.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/zohran-mamdani-and-wife-rama-duwaji-s-love-story-might-restore-your-faith-in-dating-apps-1751008624066">Zohran Mamdani and wife Rama Duwaji's love story might restore your faith in dating apps</a>&nbsp;“The so-called modernity of our nuclear deterrent forces is at the highest level," Putin said, higher than any other nuclear power.&nbsp;Which country has done it before?&nbsp;In the 21st century, only North Korea has carried out a nuclear test - and that was in 2017. Although Russia recently tested two nuclear weapons, it was on a "low-yield" scale and not a full-fledged explosion.&nbsp;What did Trump say?&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-got-our-a-es-handed-to-us-vivek-ramaswamy-thinks-republicans-need-to-learn-2-things-after-mamdani-s-win-1762348114786">‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win</a>&nbsp;On Sunday (Nov 2), Trump said that other nations were testing nuclear weapons. He alleged that &nbsp;Pakistan, North Korea, China, and Russia were conducting secret underground nuclear tests.&nbsp;“No, we’re going to test because they test and others test. And certainly North Korea’s been testing. Pakistan’s been testing," Trump said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asim-munir-to-get-more-powers-shehbaz-sharif-pitches-amendment-that-could-make-serious-changes-in-pakistani-constitution-1762263854774">Asim Munir to get more powers? Shehbaz Sharif pitches amendment that could make serious changes in Pakistani constitution</a>&nbsp;“You don’t necessarily know where they’re testing. They test way underground where people don’t know exactly what’s happening with the test," he added.

In the 21st century, only North Korea has carried out a nuclear test - and that was in 2017. Although Russia recently tested two nuclear weapons, it was on a low-yield scale and not a full-fledged explosion.

President Vladimir Putin has hinted that Moscow could resume its nuclear tests if the United States does the same. Putin's remark, made at a security council meeting in Moscow on Wednesday (Nov 5), came after US President Donald Trump said America will restart its nuclear tests. Moreover, reports said that Putin directed his defence and foreign ministries and security services to "gather information" on the same. Also read: Zohran Mamdani and wife Rama Duwaji's love story might restore your faith in dating apps “The so-called modernity of our nuclear deterrent forces is at the highest level," Putin said, higher than any other nuclear power. Which country has done it before? In the 21st century, only North Korea has carried out a nuclear test - and that was in 2017. Although Russia recently tested two nuclear weapons, it was on a "low-yield" scale and not a full-fledged explosion. What did Trump say? Also read: ‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win On Sunday (Nov 2), Trump said that other nations were testing nuclear weapons. He alleged that Pakistan, North Korea, China, and Russia were conducting secret underground nuclear tests. “No, we’re going to test because they test and others test. And certainly North Korea’s been testing. Pakistan’s been testing," Trump said. Also read: Asim Munir to get more powers? Shehbaz Sharif pitches amendment that could make serious changes in Pakistani constitution “You don’t necessarily know where they’re testing. They test way underground where people don’t know exactly what’s happening with the test," he added.

In the 21st century, only North Korea has carried out a nuclear test - and that was in 2017. Although Russia recently tested two nuclear weapons, it was on a low-yield scale and not a full-fledged explosion.

Russia to restart nuclear testing? Putin says if Trump...

A controversy has erupted after a few Hindu pilgrims were denied entry to the Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. The authorities of the Pakistani government reportedly told the pilgrims they can not cross the border as gurudwaras are only for Sikhs. Families who were barred said they had all the required documents, but Pakistani officials rejected their visas at the last moment.&nbsp;A Hindu pilgrim whose family was among those stopped told News 18, "My seven family members’ visas got cancelled. After getting the visa, we reached the Wagah border and completed the immigration process. But once we boarded the bus, Pakistani security personnel asked us to deboard. They said gurdwaras are for Sikhs, not Hindu pilgrims, and finally cancelled our visas."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-got-our-a-es-handed-to-us-vivek-ramaswamy-thinks-republicans-need-to-learn-2-things-after-mamdani-s-win-1762348114786">‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win</a>&nbsp;According to a report by news agency PTI, Pakistani officials told at least 14 Hindus from Delhi and Lucknow that they could not travel with the Sikh group as they weren't a part of the religion.&nbsp;"Pakistani officials told us you are Hindu, you cannot go with a Sikh jatha," Amar Chand, a devotee who was sent back with six other family members, told PTI.&nbsp;According to the report, the family of seven, along with another seven people from Lucknow, were sent back, making the total 14.&nbsp;"Those who have been denied entry by Pakistan authorities are Hindus by faith and basically Pakistanis, and staying in India for long. They are Indian passport holders. They had got clearance from Indian immigration authorities at the Attari-Wagah border check post. When they entered Pakistan, its authorities checked their documents and returned them to the BSF", said an official of the state intelligence wing posted at the border.&nbsp;

The authorities of the Pakistani government reportedly told the pilgrims they can not cross the border as gurudwaras are only for Sikhs. Families who were barred said they had all the required documents, but Pakistani officials rejected their visas at the last moment.

A controversy has erupted after a few Hindu pilgrims were denied entry to the Nankana Sahib in Pakistan. The authorities of the Pakistani government reportedly told the pilgrims they can not cross the border as gurudwaras are only for Sikhs. Families who were barred said they had all the required documents, but Pakistani officials rejected their visas at the last moment. A Hindu pilgrim whose family was among those stopped told News 18, "My seven family members’ visas got cancelled. After getting the visa, we reached the Wagah border and completed the immigration process. But once we boarded the bus, Pakistani security personnel asked us to deboard. They said gurdwaras are for Sikhs, not Hindu pilgrims, and finally cancelled our visas." Also read: ‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win According to a report by news agency PTI, Pakistani officials told at least 14 Hindus from Delhi and Lucknow that they could not travel with the Sikh group as they weren't a part of the religion. "Pakistani officials told us you are Hindu, you cannot go with a Sikh jatha," Amar Chand, a devotee who was sent back with six other family members, told PTI. According to the report, the family of seven, along with another seven people from Lucknow, were sent back, making the total 14. "Those who have been denied entry by Pakistan authorities are Hindus by faith and basically Pakistanis, and staying in India for long. They are Indian passport holders. They had got clearance from Indian immigration authorities at the Attari-Wagah border check post. When they entered Pakistan, its authorities checked their documents and returned them to the BSF", said an official of the state intelligence wing posted at the border.

The authorities of the Pakistani government reportedly told the pilgrims they can not cross the border as gurudwaras are only for Sikhs. Families who were barred said they had all the required documents, but Pakistani officials rejected their visas at the last moment.

'Gurudwaras only for Sikhs'? Indian Hindu pilgrims denied entry to Nankana Sahib in Pakistan

Ukraine is planning to replace its kopeck coins with “shah”—a historical Ukrainian term as a continued effort to shed symbols of Russian dominance, Central Bank Governor Andriy Pyshnyi announced while expressing hope that the change could be implemented by the end of this year. Ukraine introduced its hryvnia currency in 1996, five years after it gained independence from the Soviet Union, minting its own coins but retaining the former Soviet name kopeck—kopikya in Ukrainian. Now, almost four years into Moscow’s full-scale invasion, new coins, to be known by the historical Ukrainian term “shah”, would mark the latest shift away from Russia.“We should finally remove any affinity, any connection with Moscow. Because we have our own name. And the time has come to finally take it back,” Pyshnyi said in an interview with Reuters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-cincinnati-mayor-aftab-pureval-wins-second-term-vanquishes-jd-vance-s-half-brother-1762347016439">Indian-origin Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval wins second term, vanquishes JD Vance’s half-brother</a>&nbsp;He added that of the 15 former Soviet republics, only Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine have retained the kopeck, and he assured that the renaming will involve no additional costs, as the single coin in circulation—equivalent to slightly more than one US cent—would be gradually replaced by the 50-shah coin.&nbsp;Ukraine’s parliament is preparing to debate the draft law on replacing the coin and the central bank is organising public discussions, exhibitions and other events to raise awareness about the proposal, he said.&nbsp;<h2>Ukrainians shed all associations with Russia</h2>&nbsp;The shah, which means “step”, was used as a monetary term in Ukraine in the 16th and 17th centuries. Notes named “shah” were also in circulation during the Ukrainian revolution in 1917-1921, Pyshnyi said, displaying bills from that period.“It is important to say that the kopeck has been retained in only three of the (15) former republics of the Soviet Union. Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine,” Pyshnyi said. The longtime leader of Belarus is a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-lawyer-neal-katyal-to-argue-against-trump-s-tariffs-in-us-supreme-court-1762283120852">Indian-American lawyer Neal Katyal to argue against Trump’s tariffs in US Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;Russian is a first language for many Ukrainians and the population had a predominantly positive attitude towards Russia in the early 2000s. Some still speak Russian, but the war has prompted many to give up associations with the Russian language and culture, which Moscow says it is fighting to protect.Hundreds of villages and towns have changed street names, and monuments to Soviet or Russian figures have been dismantled. Memorial plaques to Russian authors, artists, or scientists who visited, worked, or lived in Ukraine have been removed.&nbsp;Ukrainians, especially younger ones, are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, artists, musicians, and other famous figures.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-10-of-india-controls-army-rahul-gandhi-s-caste-remark-in-bihar-kicks-up-new-storm-1762270304493">‘10% of India controls Army’: Rahul Gandhi’s caste remark in Bihar kicks up new storm</a>&nbsp;A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in September said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively.

A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively. The young Ukrainians are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, and musicians.

Ukraine is planning to replace its kopeck coins with “shah”—a historical Ukrainian term as a continued effort to shed symbols of Russian dominance, Central Bank Governor Andriy Pyshnyi announced while expressing hope that the change could be implemented by the end of this year. Ukraine introduced its hryvnia currency in 1996, five years after it gained independence from the Soviet Union, minting its own coins but retaining the former Soviet name kopeck—kopikya in Ukrainian. Now, almost four years into Moscow’s full-scale invasion, new coins, to be known by the historical Ukrainian term “shah”, would mark the latest shift away from Russia. “We should finally remove any affinity, any connection with Moscow. Because we have our own name. And the time has come to finally take it back,” Pyshnyi said in an interview with Reuters. Also Read: Indian-origin Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval wins second term, vanquishes JD Vance’s half-brother He added that of the 15 former Soviet republics, only Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine have retained the kopeck, and he assured that the renaming will involve no additional costs, as the single coin in circulation—equivalent to slightly more than one US cent—would be gradually replaced by the 50-shah coin. Ukraine’s parliament is preparing to debate the draft law on replacing the coin and the central bank is organising public discussions, exhibitions and other events to raise awareness about the proposal, he said. Ukrainians shed all associations with Russia The shah, which means “step”, was used as a monetary term in Ukraine in the 16th and 17th centuries. Notes named “shah” were also in circulation during the Ukrainian revolution in 1917-1921, Pyshnyi said, displaying bills from that period. “It is important to say that the kopeck has been retained in only three of the (15) former republics of the Soviet Union. Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine,” Pyshnyi said. The longtime leader of Belarus is a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Also Read: Indian-American lawyer Neal Katyal to argue against Trump’s tariffs in US Supreme Court Russian is a first language for many Ukrainians and the population had a predominantly positive attitude towards Russia in the early 2000s. Some still speak Russian, but the war has prompted many to give up associations with the Russian language and culture, which Moscow says it is fighting to protect. Hundreds of villages and towns have changed street names, and monuments to Soviet or Russian figures have been dismantled. Memorial plaques to Russian authors, artists, or scientists who visited, worked, or lived in Ukraine have been removed. Ukrainians, especially younger ones, are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, artists, musicians, and other famous figures. Also Read: ‘10% of India controls Army’: Rahul Gandhi’s caste remark in Bihar kicks up new storm A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology in September said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively.

A poll conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology said that about 91% of Ukrainians have a negative attitude towards Russia, while 4% view it positively. The young Ukrainians are rediscovering national history and identity, reclaiming Ukrainian writers, poets, and musicians.

Ukraine to replace kopeck coins with ‘shah’ in another bid to break away from Russia

Before his debut in politics, Mamdani worked as a housing counsellor, helping low-income homeowners in Queens fight eviction.

Zohran Mamdani: Did you know these things about New York's new mayor

US President Donald Trump, after the results of the elections in New York, said that the US shutdown played a big role in the success of democrats. Talking at a breakfast with Republican Senators, Trump said, “Don't think Democrats will act soon on shutdown , don't think it'll be sorted soon.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“It was not expected to be a victory. Very Democrat areas. But I don’t think it was good for Republicans, or good for anybody. We learned a lot," Trump said in his speech.&nbsp;“We should start tonight with ‘the country’s open, congratulations,’ then we should pass voter ID, we should pass no mail in voting… you go to a grocery store, you have to give ID," he told the GOP senators.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-got-our-a-es-handed-to-us-vivek-ramaswamy-thinks-republicans-need-to-learn-2-things-after-mamdani-s-win-1762348114786">‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ohio Governor candidate and Donald Trump's ally, Vivek Ramaswamy, reacted to Zohran Mamdani's win as New York mayor. He said that his Republican Party needs to learn two things from the election results: Focus on affordability, and cut out identity politics.&nbsp;Taking to X, Ramaswamy said in a video, "We got our a**es handed to us. In New Jersey, Virginia and New York City. Democrats swept all three. There are two key lessons for Republicans. Listen carefully."&nbsp;"Number one: our side needs to focus on affordability. Make the American Dream affordable. Bring down costs, electric costs, grocery costs, healthcare costs and housing costs. And lay out how we're gonna do it," the Indian-origin politician said.&nbsp;"And number two, cut out the identity politics. It doesn't suit Republicans. It's not for us. That's the woke Left's game, not ours. We don't care about the color of your skin or your religion. We care about the content of your character. That's what who we are," he added.

US shutdown a BIG FACTOR in Democrats win: Trump on Zohran Mamdani victory

US President Donald Trump, after the results of the elections in New York, said that the US shutdown played a big role in the success of democrats. Talking at a breakfast with Republican Senators, Trump said, “Don't think Democrats will act soon on shutdown , don't think it'll be sorted soon.” “It was not expected to be a victory. Very Democrat areas. But I don’t think it was good for Republicans, or good for anybody. We learned a lot," Trump said in his speech. “We should start tonight with ‘the country’s open, congratulations,’ then we should pass voter ID, we should pass no mail in voting… you go to a grocery store, you have to give ID," he told the GOP senators. Also read: ‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win Meanwhile, Ohio Governor candidate and Donald Trump's ally, Vivek Ramaswamy, reacted to Zohran Mamdani's win as New York mayor. He said that his Republican Party needs to learn two things from the election results: Focus on affordability, and cut out identity politics. Taking to X, Ramaswamy said in a video, "We got our a**es handed to us. In New Jersey, Virginia and New York City. Democrats swept all three. There are two key lessons for Republicans. Listen carefully." "Number one: our side needs to focus on affordability. Make the American Dream affordable. Bring down costs, electric costs, grocery costs, healthcare costs and housing costs. And lay out how we're gonna do it," the Indian-origin politician said. "And number two, cut out the identity politics. It doesn't suit Republicans. It's not for us. That's the woke Left's game, not ours. We don't care about the color of your skin or your religion. We care about the content of your character. That's what who we are," he added.

US shutdown a BIG FACTOR in Democrats' win: Trump on Zohran Mamdani's victory

US shutdown a BIG FACTOR in Democrats' win: Trump on Zohran Mamdani's victory

The City of Paris have launched a lottery to offer a chance to Parisians to be buried next to famous people, including some of history's famous artists, Jim Morrison from the Doors, the author Oscar Wilde and legendary French singer Edith Piaf.&nbsp;There is a finite amount of burial land and an infinite amount of dead people. So wrap up the competition, the Paris city council will hold a lottery in the overcrowded cemeteries like Pere-Lachaise, Montparnasse and Montmartre. Ten gravestones in each cemetery are being offered for €4000 each. The purchaser has to restore the gravestones to acquire a burial spot next to them; the winner will be chosen by January 2026. The new owner will be responsible for the burial in the new burial plot, costing from €976 &nbsp;for 10 years, €17,668 for perpetuity. If the owner fails to comply, he will forfeit the burial plot and the deposited money. These applications are open only to residents of Paris.&nbsp;<h2>Marylin Monroe set the trend&nbsp;</h2>Famous Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe set the trend who was much maligned during her lifetime, had set the trend of famous grave burial. Richard Poncher, a wealthy Californian man, purchased the tomb above Monroe’s in 1986 and asked to be buried upside down on the award-winning star. Poncher's wife auctioned the site for $4.5 million on eBay. Playboy founder Hugh Hefner purchased the land next to her. So she is the trend setter even in death, till today, people around the world visit her grave in Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles. Monroe first set the trend of making the burial place a visiting spot.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Parisians have a chance to be buried next to the famous stars in cemeteries like Pere-Lachaise, Montparnasse and Montmartre. 

The City of Paris have launched a lottery to offer a chance to Parisians to be buried next to famous people, including some of history's famous artists, Jim Morrison from the Doors, the author Oscar Wilde and legendary French singer Edith Piaf. There is a finite amount of burial land and an infinite amount of dead people. So wrap up the competition, the Paris city council will hold a lottery in the overcrowded cemeteries like Pere-Lachaise, Montparnasse and Montmartre. Ten gravestones in each cemetery are being offered for €4000 each. The purchaser has to restore the gravestones to acquire a burial spot next to them; the winner will be chosen by January 2026. The new owner will be responsible for the burial in the new burial plot, costing from €976 for 10 years, €17,668 for perpetuity. If the owner fails to comply, he will forfeit the burial plot and the deposited money. These applications are open only to residents of Paris. Marylin Monroe set the trend Famous Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe set the trend who was much maligned during her lifetime, had set the trend of famous grave burial. Richard Poncher, a wealthy Californian man, purchased the tomb above Monroe’s in 1986 and asked to be buried upside down on the award-winning star. Poncher's wife auctioned the site for $4.5 million on eBay. Playboy founder Hugh Hefner purchased the land next to her. So she is the trend setter even in death, till today, people around the world visit her grave in Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles. Monroe first set the trend of making the burial place a visiting spot.

Parisians have a chance to be buried next to the famous stars in cemeteries like Pere-Lachaise, Montparnasse and Montmartre, with each plot costing €4000&nbsp;

France burial lottery: Win a chance to be buried near famous people

Indian-origin Aftab Pureval made history in 2021 when he became Cincinnati’s first Asian-American Mayor after winning the election, and on Wednesday he reinforced his position by winning the second term with over 80% of the votes and, in the process, crushing the Republican nominee Cory Bowman, who is the half-brother of US Vice President JD Vance, by a huge margin. Earlier this year, Pureval had already shown his strong public support by sweeping the all-party municipal primary in May with more than 80 per cent of the vote. Although the mayor’s office is non-partisan, Pureval is aligned with the Democratic Party. Before stepping into politics, Pureval worked as a lawyer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Cincinnati, it’s the honor of my life to serve as your mayor. I’m humbled, and I’m ready, to continue our work for the next four years. <a href="https://t.co/jV6lhN8ULI">pic.twitter.com/jV6lhN8ULI</a>&mdash; Aftab Pureval (@AftabPureval) <a href="https://twitter.com/AftabPureval/status/1985908317114237063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Pureval born to Punjabi father and Tibetan mom</h2>&nbsp;Pureval was born to a Punjabi father and a Tibetan refugee mother in Ohio. From a young age, he was politically inclined, winning his first-ever student election in class 8 under the slogan “Big, Brown and Beautiful.”He graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and then moved to Washington, D.C., in 2008, where he worked at a law firm. Four years later, he returned to Hamilton County, Ohio, to serve as a special assistant US attorney with the Department of Justice.&nbsp;In 2013, he joined Ohio-based consumer goods giant Procter &amp; Gamble as legal counsel, where he worked as the global brand attorney for popular skincare brand Olay. Three years later, he left the company to formally launch his political career but success eluded him initially. In 2018, Pureval contested the election for Ohio’s 1st Congressional District but lost to Republican incumbent Steve Chabot.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-lawyer-neal-katyal-to-argue-against-trump-s-tariffs-in-us-supreme-court-1762283120852">Indian-American lawyer Neal Katyal to argue against Trump’s tariffs in US Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;Pureval announced his candidacy for the Cincinnati mayoral election in 2021 and emerged as the frontrunner in the primary elections with 39 percent of the votes in a crowded field of six candidates.Eventually, he defeated fellow Democrat and former mayor David S Mann with 66 per cent of the vote, making history as Cincinnati’s first Asian-American mayor.&nbsp;Last year, while endorsing former vice president Kamala Harris in the presidential race, Pureval dwelt on his family’s immigrant journey and wrote, “Forty-four years ago, my parents left Tibet and India... They travelled across the world because they believed in the promise of America.”&nbsp;WATCH: Mamdani Victory Speech: We Have Toppled a Political Dynasty<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mamdani-victory-speech-we-have-toppled-a-political-dynasty-1762339107840/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/mamdani-victory-speech-we-have-toppled-a-political-dynasty-1762339107840/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>JD Vance’s half-brother Cory Bowman is a pastor, coffee shop owner</h2>&nbsp;Cory Bowman, 36, and Vice President JD Vance share the same father, Donald Ray Bowman, but only connected later in life. Vance writes in his memoir that Donald Ray Bowman was largely absent during his childhood, prompting his mother to sever ties and even change his surname to her maiden name, and as a result, Vance was unaware of his half-siblings for many years. He and Cory Bowman reconnected in their teens after Vance expressed a desire to meet.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-10-of-india-controls-army-rahul-gandhi-s-caste-remark-in-bihar-kicks-up-new-storm-1762270304493">‘10% of India controls Army’: Rahul Gandhi’s caste remark in Bihar kicks up new storm</a>&nbsp;When JD Vance was officially nominated as President Donald Trump’s running mate at the Republican National Convention in July 2024, Cory Bowman was in attendance to show his support for his half-brother.&nbsp;An evangelical pastor, Cory Bowman and his wife, founded The River Church, a non-denominational outfit. He also owns the Kings Arms Coffee in Cincinatti since 2022. He announced his mayoral bid in February 2025 and Vance, who did not get politically involved in Cory Bowman’s campaign, publicly urged voters to support his half-brother.&nbsp;“Hey Cincinnati! My brother Cory Bowman is running for mayor and is on the ballot today for the primary. He’s a good guy with a heart for serving his community. Get out there and vote for him,” Vance tweeted.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Aftab Pureval was politically inclined from a young age and won his first-ever student election in class 8 under the slogan “Big, Brown and Beautiful.” He graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and then moved to Washington, D.C., in 2008, where he worked at a law firm.

Indian-origin Aftab Pureval made history in 2021 when he became Cincinnati’s first Asian-American Mayor after winning the election, and on Wednesday he reinforced his position by winning the second term with over 80% of the votes and, in the process, crushing the Republican nominee Cory Bowman, who is the half-brother of US Vice President JD Vance, by a huge margin. Earlier this year, Pureval had already shown his strong public support by sweeping the all-party municipal primary in May with more than 80 per cent of the vote. Although the mayor’s office is non-partisan, Pureval is aligned with the Democratic Party. Before stepping into politics, Pureval worked as a lawyer.

Aftab Pureval was politically inclined from a young age and won his first-ever student election in class 8 under the slogan “Big, Brown and Beautiful.” He graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and then moved to Washington, D.C., in 2008, where he worked at a law firm.

Indian-origin Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval wins second term, vanquishes JD Vance’s half-brother

Ohio Governor candidate and Donald Trump's ally, Vivek Ramaswamy, reacted to Zohran Mamdani's win as New York mayor. He said that his Republican Party needs to learn two things from the election results: Focus on affordability, and cut out identity politics.&nbsp;Taking to X, Ramaswamy said in a video, "We got our a**es handed to us. In New Jersey, Virginia and New York City. Democrats swept all three. There are two key lessons for Republicans. Listen carefully."&nbsp;"Number one: our side needs to focus on affordability. Make the American Dream affordable. Bring down costs, electric costs, grocery costs, healthcare costs and housing costs. And lay out how we're gonna do it," the Indian-origin politician said.&nbsp;"And number two, cut out the identity politics. It doesn't suit Republicans. It's not for us. That's the woke Left's game, not ours. We don't care about the color of your skin or your religion. We care about the content of your character. That's what who we are," he added.&nbsp;This, after US President Donald Trump, after the results of the elections in New York, said that the US shutdown played a big role in the success of democrats. Talking at a breakfast with Republican Senators, Trump said, “Don't think Democrats will act soon on shutdown , don't think it'll be sorted soon.”&nbsp;&nbsp;“It was not expected to be a victory. Very Democrat areas. But I don’t think it was good for Republicans, or good for anybody. We learned a lot," Trump said in his speech.&nbsp;“We should start tonight with ‘the country’s open, congratulations,’ then we should pass voter ID, we should pass no mail in voting… you go to a grocery store, you have to give ID," he told the GOP senators.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-got-our-a-es-handed-to-us-vivek-ramaswamy-thinks-republicans-need-to-learn-2-things-after-mamdani-s-win-1762348114786">‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win</a>

The Republican said that there is a need to make the American Dream affordable. Bring down costs, electric costs, grocery costs, healthcare costs and housing costs. And lay out how we are gonna do it. 



Ohio Governor candidate and Donald Trump's ally, Vivek Ramaswamy, reacted to Zohran Mamdani's win as New York mayor. He said that his Republican Party needs to learn two things from the election results: Focus on affordability, and cut out identity politics. Taking to X, Ramaswamy said in a video, "We got our a**es handed to us. In New Jersey, Virginia and New York City. Democrats swept all three. There are two key lessons for Republicans. Listen carefully." "Number one: our side needs to focus on affordability. Make the American Dream affordable. Bring down costs, electric costs, grocery costs, healthcare costs and housing costs. And lay out how we're gonna do it," the Indian-origin politician said. "And number two, cut out the identity politics. It doesn't suit Republicans. It's not for us. That's the woke Left's game, not ours. We don't care about the color of your skin or your religion. We care about the content of your character. That's what who we are," he added. This, after US President Donald Trump, after the results of the elections in New York, said that the US shutdown played a big role in the success of democrats. Talking at a breakfast with Republican Senators, Trump said, “Don't think Democrats will act soon on shutdown , don't think it'll be sorted soon.” “It was not expected to be a victory. Very Democrat areas. But I don’t think it was good for Republicans, or good for anybody. We learned a lot," Trump said in his speech. “We should start tonight with ‘the country’s open, congratulations,’ then we should pass voter ID, we should pass no mail in voting… you go to a grocery store, you have to give ID," he told the GOP senators. Also read: ‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win

The Republican said that there is a need to make the American Dream affordable. Bring down costs, electric costs, grocery costs, healthcare costs and housing costs. And lay out how we're gonna do it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win

A man who appeared to be intoxicated groped and attempted to kiss Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum before an official intervened in Mexico City on Tuesday. The disturbing scene unfolded in the historic downtown area of the city while the president was interacting with the public on the street.&nbsp;The incident captured on phone has since gone viral on social media, raising serious concerns about her security detail. The video, which is widely circulating on social media, shows a man who appeared to be intoxicated, approaching her from behind, grabbing her, and attempting to kiss her while she was speaking to citizens.&nbsp;For several moments, no security staff intervened, allowing the man to approach uncomfortably close before officials eventually pulled him away. Sheinbaum, appearing tense yet composed, calmly brushed his hands aside, saying softly, “Don’t worry.”&nbsp;The incident has sparked anger and renewed concerns among netizens about presidential security, particularly as Sheinbaum is known for her open, people-first approach, much like her mentor and predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">CRAZY moment man GROPES Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum Then TRIES to kiss her before security finally wakes up How was security THIS slow to react? <a href="https://t.co/vaECXy0bCW">pic.twitter.com/vaECXy0bCW</a>&mdash; RT (@RT_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/RT_com/status/1985833681143914932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Netizens react to the viral video</h3>One of the netizens reacted to the video, "They need to lock him up. Piece of shit probably does that all the time to people without security. Why are they laughing."&nbsp;"This is disgusting. Arrest that disrespectful man. Even as president women are harassed. Wtf, "the next added.&nbsp;Another said, "The guy was probably drinking. You can hear him at the end youuu are veryyy hot."&nbsp;The next also said," The security forces are either stupid or the president's security arrangements are weak. How can he possibly defend his country and protect his people? It's shameful and inappropriate."&nbsp;One of the netizens joked saying," He should be sent to the psychiatric hospital. Who in their right mind would want to kiss Sheinbaum?"

The disturbing scene unfolded in the historic downtown area of the city while the president was speaking with citizens on the street. The incident captured on phone has since gone viral on social media, raising serious concerns about her security detail.

A man who appeared to be intoxicated groped and attempted to kiss Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum before an official intervened in Mexico City on Tuesday. The disturbing scene unfolded in the historic downtown area of the city while the president was interacting with the public on the street. The incident captured on phone has since gone viral on social media, raising serious concerns about her security detail. The video, which is widely circulating on social media, shows a man who appeared to be intoxicated, approaching her from behind, grabbing her, and attempting to kiss her while she was speaking to citizens. For several moments, no security staff intervened, allowing the man to approach uncomfortably close before officials eventually pulled him away. Sheinbaum, appearing tense yet composed, calmly brushed his hands aside, saying softly, “Don’t worry.” The incident has sparked anger and renewed concerns among netizens about presidential security, particularly as Sheinbaum is known for her open, people-first approach, much like her mentor and predecessor, Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

The disturbing scene unfolded in the historic downtown area of the city while the president was speaking with citizens on the street. The incident captured on phone has since gone viral on social media, raising serious concerns about her security detail.

SHOCKING! Man gropes, attempts to kiss Mexico’s President Claudia during public event — VIDEO

Zohran Mamdani, an Indian-origin Muslim man, is now the mayor of New York. The 33-year-old won the election on Tuesday (Nov 4). Mamdani became New York's youngest mayor in the century after a massive political campaign, and his active presence on social media landed him a majority of young voters - Gen Zs and Millennials. In this entire hustle and bustle of the political campaign, one thing that significantly drew the attention of people online was Mamdani's love story with his wife.&nbsp;Mamdani's wife, Rama Duwaji, was seen backstage during the entire political campaign. Her online presence is also very limited as she does not share much about her personal life on social media. But the love story of the 27-year-old artist with NYC's new mayor definitely grabbed attention online. Rama, a Syrian-American illustrator and animator, met Zohran on the dating platform Hinge.&nbsp;In a video published on YouTube on June 22, Zohran, son of filmmaker Mira Nair, was seen with the content creator Kaneez Surka, where he talked about his love life and also shared some crucial dating advice for youngsters. He said that the first and most important thing while finding love online is your firm intention that you will. He advised people to have the right attitude towards their dating and relationship goals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-prez-trump-baffles-with-sudden-u-turn-on-china-buying-iranian-oil-1750859585966">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-prez-trump-baffles-with-sudden-u-turn-on-china-buying-iranian-oil-1750859585966/embed</a>&nbsp;Zohran, NYC's first Muslim mayor, said, "First is, I found my wife on Hinge. So, dating apps still work. Just to let people know.” “Second, I think we also need to give people more time in their lives. A lot of people, a lot of New Yorkers, are basically on a hamster wheel of anxiety. There is not much time to sit in the park. There is not much time to explore your own city, if you are always worried about whether you have enough money to make your rent... so the love of your life, may currently be too stressed about whether they can afford the most expensive city in the United States to find you.. Affordability is about the romance," Zohran said.&nbsp;Zohran and Rama married earlier this year at a civil ceremony at New York City's Clerk's office. They further got their Nikah done in Dubai, where Zohran's parents live. In a podcast in April, Zohran mentioned his relationship with Rama, a “Hinge success story,” and added: “There’s still hope in those dating apps.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zohran and Rama married earlier this year at a civil ceremony at New York City Clerk office. They further got their Nikah done in Dubai, where Zohran parents live.

Zohran Mamdani, an Indian-origin Muslim man, is now the mayor of New York. The 33-year-old won the election on Tuesday (Nov 4). Mamdani became New York's youngest mayor in the century after a massive political campaign, and his active presence on social media landed him a majority of young voters - Gen Zs and Millennials. In this entire hustle and bustle of the political campaign, one thing that significantly drew the attention of people online was Mamdani's love story with his wife. Mamdani's wife, Rama Duwaji, was seen backstage during the entire political campaign. Her online presence is also very limited as she does not share much about her personal life on social media. But the love story of the 27-year-old artist with NYC's new mayor definitely grabbed attention online. Rama, a Syrian-American illustrator and animator, met Zohran on the dating platform Hinge. In a video published on YouTube on June 22, Zohran, son of filmmaker Mira Nair, was seen with the content creator Kaneez Surka, where he talked about his love life and also shared some crucial dating advice for youngsters. He said that the first and most important thing while finding love online is your firm intention that you will. He advised people to have the right attitude towards their dating and relationship goals. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-prez-trump-baffles-with-sudden-u-turn-on-china-buying-iranian-oil-1750859585966/embed Zohran, NYC's first Muslim mayor, said, "First is, I found my wife on Hinge. So, dating apps still work. Just to let people know.” “Second, I think we also need to give people more time in their lives. A lot of people, a lot of New Yorkers, are basically on a hamster wheel of anxiety. There is not much time to sit in the park. There is not much time to explore your own city, if you are always worried about whether you have enough money to make your rent... so the love of your life, may currently be too stressed about whether they can afford the most expensive city in the United States to find you.. Affordability is about the romance," Zohran said. Zohran and Rama married earlier this year at a civil ceremony at New York City's Clerk's office. They further got their Nikah done in Dubai, where Zohran's parents live. In a podcast in April, Zohran mentioned his relationship with Rama, a “Hinge success story,” and added: “There’s still hope in those dating apps.”

Zohran and Rama married earlier this year at a civil ceremony at New York City's Clerk's office. They further got their Nikah done in Dubai, where Zohran's parents live.

Zohran Mamdani and wife Rama Duwaji's love story might restore your faith in dating apps

Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani registered a spectacular victory in New York Mayoral elections on Nov 4 by defeating Trump-backed former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani knows that he has created history as he is the man of many firsts - &nbsp;first Indian-American to be the mayor of NYC, first immigrant mayor of NYC, first Muslim mayor of NYC, first South Asian mayor of NYC and the youngest mayor of the city in over a century. Surely, it wasn't an easy task to bring this ideological shift in America's capitalist citadel. But, this self-declared Democratic Socialist did it. He owes a major part of his success to his Bollywood style social media campaign. Right from the start, Mamdani knew how he will promote himself on social media, and it worked! Even in his victory, Mamdani didn't shy away from showing his love for Bollywood. Just after his victory speech, crowd cheered in unison and internet went gaga as the tune of 'Dhoom Macchale' played in background, with Mamdani hugging his wife Rama Duwaji, mother Mira Nair and father Mahmood Mamdani.&nbsp;&nbsp;Isn't his victory a perfect Bollywood script too? An immigrant under constant attack from the President makes his way to the top. But, like every quintessential hero, he didn't compromise on his vision and ideas; he was not intimidated. For the side track, he had a love story that began on Hinge. And even after victory, it's “Picture abhi baaki hai” as he has a daunting task of fulfilling his promises. But at the end, the hero wins, hopefully, here too!<h2>How Mamdani used Bollywood for his campaign?</h2>From 1 per cent in the polls in February to around 56 per cent by July, Zohran Mamdani's use of social media for his election campaign is one for the books, if not, it is surely for a case to be studied in Advertisement and PR class. You could find Mamdani everywhere - from TikTok reels to Instagram stories to YT. He teased his planned absence from New York on social media to get traction, he made click worthy captions for videos of his rallies, he collaborated with creators and his team knew how to keep the audience hooked. From using videos of him eating with hands to him visiting temples, mosques and gurudwaras, from him buying biryani from food trucks in NYC to him speaking in multiple South Asian languages, from SRK's iconic pose and Amitabh Bachchan's ‘mere pas maa hai’ - Mamdani struck the right chord. At one point, Mamdani's videos were so viral in South Asia &nbsp;that Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis &nbsp;huddled in his comment section to know how they could vote in NYC mayoral polls! The cultural familiarity of these videos helped him get voters' attention.<h3>"Mere paas maa hai...."</h3>In a campaign video, Mamdani recreated a famous dialogue from the 1975 film Deewar starring Amitabh Bachchan. He said, “Aaj mere paas buildingein hain, property hai, bangla hai, bank balance hai, gaadi hai. Tumhare paas kya hai?” Mamdani says, “Aap” (I have you) In the same video, Mamdani strikes Shah Rukh Khan's signature pose.<h3>"Kya tumne kabhi kisi ko pyaar kiya? Kisiko dil diya?"</h3>In another video, Mamdani used legendary singer Kishore Kumar's voice from the 1980 film Karz to explain the ranked choice voting. Changing the original lines “Kya tumne kabhi kisi ko pyaar kiya? Kisiko dil diya?” to "Hey, have you ever voted for anyone? Have you ever ranked anyone?" - Mamdani made sure that migrants and immigrants paid attention to the ranked choice voting technique.<h3>"Roti Kapda Aur Makaan"</h3>Mamdani referenced the 1974 film Roti, Kapda Aur Makaan to highlight his core promise of affordable food, clothing, and housing for all New Yorkers.<h3>"Apna time aayega"</h3>He also repurposed the hit Hindi song Apna Time Aayega (“Our time will come”) from the Bollywood film Gully Boy and used it as a slogan in his campaign - “Ab, aapka time aagaya” (“Now, your time has come”).<h2>How Mamdani used South Asian roots in his campaign?</h2>Just ahead of the election, Mamdani had declared that he would embrace his identity. If there's one thing that his campaign showed, it was that he would be unapologetic about his South Asian roots. In multiple videos, he used South Asian languages to connect with immigrant voters. He blended his campaign videos with words from Hindi, Bengali and Urdu. From popularising chants of "Amar mayor, Tomar mayor, Mamdani Mamdani!" (My mayor, Your mayor, Mamdani Mamdani!) to “bhavisho amader hathe” (Our future is in our hands), Mamdani was seen speaking in Bengali in a couple of his videos. In a few videos, he smoothly shifted from English to Hindi - “New Yorkers are struggling to afford food, clothing, and housing. Mai ise badalne ke liye lad raha hun."(I am fighting to change that.) “Bhaiyon bas 20 din bache hai aur vikalp mere aur Andrew Cuomo ke bich hai” (Brothers, only 20 days are left, and the choice is between me and Andrew Cuomo). Without a doubt, it was unexpected and without a doubt, it worked.&nbsp;Moreover, Mamdani proved to be a representative South Asian needed in the US to challenge their racism and anti-Asia beliefs. Mamdani sparked a massive controversy when he ate biryani and Haleem with his hands in a few of his campaign videos. In the video, while eating with his hands, he said that he was poking the “holy grail of taboos in American politics - Socialism, Islam and Palestine.” He did poke the fourth one too - West's insensitivity towards Asian culture and practices. While his act exposed the racist character of several Republican leaders and supporters, he did connect with the grassroots.&nbsp;Mamdani's videos hit the right chord because of their rawness and unique honesty. Probably, the NYC voters believed it was not performative and Mamdani was one amongst them. Why was Mamdani able to do it flawlessly? The answer lies in his own family and upbringing and the voters saw it. Both his mother and father - Mahmood Mamdani and Mira Nair - &nbsp;are of Indian descent. He was born in Uganda and at the age of seven, he migrated to New York. He married a Syrian-American woman, Rama Duwaji.Mamdani - now the mayor-elect of New York City - knew that culture is close to the hearts of 600,000 South Asian Americans in New York and he knew canvassing would require something more than promises, so this "communist lunatic" chose South Asia's love for its culture. We all know what happened next! In his speech after victory, he gave a glimpse of what he has learnt from Bollywood - “Donald Trump, since I know you're watching, I have four words for you: Turn the volume up.” To this, Trump could only say: “And so it begins!"&nbsp;<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2025/20251105/image-1762346107961.png"> &nbsp;&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani, NYC’s first Indian-American and Muslim mayor, ran a viral Bollywood-style campaign blending South Asian culture, language, and socialist ideals. From “Mere paas maa hai” to “Ab aapka time aagaya,” he used Hindi, Bengali, and Urdu to connect with immigrants and win big.

Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani registered a spectacular victory in New York Mayoral elections on Nov 4 by defeating Trump-backed former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa. Mamdani knows that he has created history as he is the man of many firsts - first Indian-American to be the mayor of NYC, first immigrant mayor of NYC, first Muslim mayor of NYC, first South Asian mayor of NYC and the youngest mayor of the city in over a century. Surely, it wasn't an easy task to bring this ideological shift in America's capitalist citadel. But, this self-declared Democratic Socialist did it. He owes a major part of his success to his Bollywood style social media campaign. Right from the start, Mamdani knew how he will promote himself on social media, and it worked! Even in his victory, Mamdani didn't shy away from showing his love for Bollywood. Just after his victory speech, crowd cheered in unison and internet went gaga as the tune of 'Dhoom Macchale' played in background, with Mamdani hugging his wife Rama Duwaji, mother Mira Nair and father Mahmood Mamdani. Isn't his victory a perfect Bollywood script too? An immigrant under constant attack from the President makes his way to the top. But, like every quintessential hero, he didn't compromise on his vision and ideas; he was not intimidated. For the side track, he had a love story that began on Hinge. And even after victory, it's “Picture abhi baaki hai” as he has a daunting task of fulfilling his promises. But at the end, the hero wins, hopefully, here too! How Mamdani used Bollywood for his campaign? From 1 per cent in the polls in February to around 56 per cent by July, Zohran Mamdani's use of social media for his election campaign is one for the books, if not, it is surely for a case to be studied in Advertisement and PR class. You could find Mamdani everywhere - from TikTok reels to Instagram stories to YT. He teased his planned absence from New York on social media to get traction, he made click worthy captions for videos of his rallies, he collaborated with creators and his team knew how to keep the audience hooked. From using videos of him eating with hands to him visiting temples, mosques and gurudwaras, from him buying biryani from food trucks in NYC to him speaking in multiple South Asian languages, from SRK's iconic pose and Amitabh Bachchan's ‘mere pas maa hai’ - Mamdani struck the right chord. At one point, Mamdani's videos were so viral in South Asia that Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis huddled in his comment section to know how they could vote in NYC mayoral polls! The cultural familiarity of these videos helped him get voters' attention. "Mere paas maa hai...." In a campaign video, Mamdani recreated a famous dialogue from the 1975 film Deewar starring Amitabh Bachchan. He said, “Aaj mere paas buildingein hain, property hai, bangla hai, bank balance hai, gaadi hai. Tumhare paas kya hai?” Mamdani says, “Aap” (I have you) In the same video, Mamdani strikes Shah Rukh Khan's signature pose. "Kya tumne kabhi kisi ko pyaar kiya? Kisiko dil diya?" In another video, Mamdani used legendary singer Kishore Kumar's voice from the 1980 film Karz to explain the ranked choice voting. Changing the original lines “Kya tumne kabhi kisi ko pyaar kiya? Kisiko dil diya?” to "Hey, have you ever voted for anyone? Have you ever ranked anyone?" - Mamdani made sure that migrants and immigrants paid attention to the ranked choice voting technique. "Roti Kapda Aur Makaan" Mamdani referenced the 1974 film Roti, Kapda Aur Makaan to highlight his core promise of affordable food, clothing, and housing for all New Yorkers. "Apna time aayega" He also repurposed the hit Hindi song Apna Time Aayega (“Our time will come”) from the Bollywood film Gully Boy and used it as a slogan in his campaign - “Ab, aapka time aagaya” (“Now, your time has come”). How Mamdani used South Asian roots in his campaign? Just ahead of the election, Mamdani had declared that he would embrace his identity. If there's one thing that his campaign showed, it was that he would be unapologetic about his South Asian roots. In multiple videos, he used South Asian languages to connect with immigrant voters. He blended his campaign videos with words from Hindi, Bengali and Urdu. From popularising chants of "Amar mayor, Tomar mayor, Mamdani Mamdani!" (My mayor, Your mayor, Mamdani Mamdani!) to “bhavisho amader hathe” (Our future is in our hands), Mamdani was seen speaking in Bengali in a couple of his videos. In a few videos, he smoothly shifted from English to Hindi - “New Yorkers are struggling to afford food, clothing, and housing. Mai ise badalne ke liye lad raha hun."(I am fighting to change that.) “Bhaiyon bas 20 din bache hai aur vikalp mere aur Andrew Cuomo ke bich hai” (Brothers, only 20 days are left, and the choice is between me and Andrew Cuomo). Without a doubt, it was unexpected and without a doubt, it worked. Moreover, Mamdani proved to be a representative South Asian needed in the US to challenge their racism and anti-Asia beliefs. Mamdani sparked a massive controversy when he ate biryani and Haleem with his hands in a few of his campaign videos. In the video, while eating with his hands, he said that he was poking the “holy grail of taboos in American politics - Socialism, Islam and Palestine.” He did poke the fourth one too - West's insensitivity towards Asian culture and practices. While his act exposed the racist character of several Republican leaders and supporters, he did connect with the grassroots. Mamdani's videos hit the right chord because of their rawness and unique honesty. Probably, the NYC voters believed it was not performative and Mamdani was one amongst them. Why was Mamdani able to do it flawlessly? The answer lies in his own family and upbringing and the voters saw it. Both his mother and father - Mahmood Mamdani and Mira Nair - are of Indian descent. He was born in Uganda and at the age of seven, he migrated to New York. He married a Syrian-American woman, Rama Duwaji. Mamdani - now the mayor-elect of New York City - knew that culture is close to the hearts of 600,000 South Asian Americans in New York and he knew canvassing would require something more than promises, so this "communist lunatic" chose South Asia's love for its culture. We all know what happened next! In his speech after victory, he gave a glimpse of what he has learnt from Bollywood - “Donald Trump, since I know you're watching, I have four words for you: Turn the volume up.” To this, Trump could only say: “And so it begins!"

Zohran Mamdani, NYC’s first Indian-American and Muslim mayor, ran a viral Bollywood-style campaign blending South Asian culture, language, and socialist ideals. From “Mere paas maa hai” to “Ab aapka time aagaya,” he used Hindi, Bengali, and Urdu to connect with immigrants and win big.

From SRK's pose to 'Dhoom macchale': How Zohran Mamdani used Bollywood and South Asian language, culture to win big in New York City

New York has a new mayor now - Zohran Mamdani, democrat, socialist, ambitious. Among his poll promises were freezing rent and making childcare free. The 34-year-old ran New York's most ambitious mayoral campaign. His bold promises were what gained him massive attention, not just in the US but abroad. But this entire show, after winning the election, will have a major effect on Mamdani. New Yorkers' hopes are incredibly high now. And Mamdani has to deliver all those promises he made - and the road might not be that easy.&nbsp;Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026. Usamah Andrabi, communications director at the progressive Justice Democrats organisation, told The Guardian, "I think for New Yorkers, it is a small light in what has been an overwhelming era of darkness.""Democratic voters – New Yorkers included – have had entrenched, corporate politicians like Andrew Cuomo stuffed down their throats as the only possible alternative to Republican representation,” Andrabi said.&nbsp;What’s his plan?&nbsp;Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers. To do this, Mamdani will have to work with the New York state legislature. He will also have to negotiate with the New York governor, Kathy Hochul. She has earlier clarified that she opposes the idea of new income taxes.&nbsp;The big problem - Trump&nbsp;One prime problem Mamdani will have to deal with is the US President Donald Trump. The Republican has earlier threatened to hold funding for the city if Mamdani wins.In October, Mamdani launched his campaign with a video describing the cost of living in New York: the struggles people face with paying rent and for childcare, the battle to make ends meet.&nbsp;“Life doesn’t have to be this hard,” he said.&nbsp;After taking his post, taking Trump into consideration, Mamdani might say the same thing for being the NYC mayor.

Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers. 

New York has a new mayor now - Zohran Mamdani, democrat, socialist, ambitious. Among his poll promises were freezing rent and making childcare free. The 34-year-old ran New York's most ambitious mayoral campaign. His bold promises were what gained him massive attention, not just in the US but abroad. But this entire show, after winning the election, will have a major effect on Mamdani. New Yorkers' hopes are incredibly high now. And Mamdani has to deliver all those promises he made - and the road might not be that easy. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026. Usamah Andrabi, communications director at the progressive Justice Democrats organisation, told The Guardian, "I think for New Yorkers, it is a small light in what has been an overwhelming era of darkness." "Democratic voters – New Yorkers included – have had entrenched, corporate politicians like Andrew Cuomo stuffed down their throats as the only possible alternative to Republican representation,” Andrabi said. What’s his plan? Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers. To do this, Mamdani will have to work with the New York state legislature. He will also have to negotiate with the New York governor, Kathy Hochul. She has earlier clarified that she opposes the idea of new income taxes. The big problem - Trump One prime problem Mamdani will have to deal with is the US President Donald Trump. The Republican has earlier threatened to hold funding for the city if Mamdani wins. In October, Mamdani launched his campaign with a video describing the cost of living in New York: the struggles people face with paying rent and for childcare, the battle to make ends meet. “Life doesn’t have to be this hard,” he said. After taking his post, taking Trump into consideration, Mamdani might say the same thing for being the NYC mayor.

Mamdani did not come without a plan. In his campaign, he elaborated on how he will fund his promises. He said he will raise the corporate tax rate in New York City. He also said to introduce 2% tax on the very wealthiest New Yorkers.&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani is going to face a big problem in New York as mayor

Coal is a black, combustible fossil fuel formed from ancient plant matter, primarily used for generating electricity, producing steel and cement, and as a fuel in various industries. In this article, we will know the top 7 coal-producing nations in the world.

Top 7 coal producing countries powering the world’s energy needs

A motorist rammed a vehicle into pedestrians and cyclists in a French island off the Atlantic coast on Wednesday (Nov 5) and critically injured nine people. The driver was detained by gendarmes. Among the injured, two were reported critical. The Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, said an investigation has been opened and he was heading to the scene. As per some reports, the 35-year-old Oleron resident “deliberately hit several pedestrians and cyclists” along a road joining two towns on the scenic island off the city of La Rochelle, prosecutor Arnaud Laraize said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-got-our-a-es-handed-to-us-vivek-ramaswamy-thinks-republicans-need-to-learn-2-things-after-mamdani-s-win-1762348114786">‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win</a>&nbsp;The suspect shouted “Allahu Akbar” (Arabic for “God is Greatest”) when arrested by police, the local prosecutor, Arnaud Laraize, told Sud Ouest newspaper.&nbsp;BFM reported that the suspect apprehended was known to the police for disorderly conduct and petty crime, including drunk driving. The French daily Le Parisien said investigators indicated the suspect may have had a history of mental health issues.Yael Braun-Pivet, President of France’s lower house, the National Assembly, said her thoughts were "with those injured this morning on the island of Oleron, victims of an attack of unprecedented violence."&nbsp;"The justice system must respond with all necessary clarity and determination," she wrote on X.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asim-munir-to-get-more-powers-shehbaz-sharif-pitches-amendment-that-could-make-serious-changes-in-pakistani-constitution-1762263854774">Asim Munir to get more powers? Shehbaz Sharif pitches amendment that could make serious changes in Pakistani constitution</a>&nbsp;Olivier Falorni, MP of the centrist Democrat Movement, addressed the National Assembly, saying that “there is a sense of shock in the country today, and deep concern for the victims.”

Among the injured, two were reported critical. The Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, said an investigation has been opened and he was heading to the scene.

A motorist rammed a vehicle into pedestrians and cyclists in a French island off the Atlantic coast on Wednesday (Nov 5) and critically injured nine people. The driver was detained by gendarmes. Among the injured, two were reported critical. The Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, said an investigation has been opened and he was heading to the scene. As per some reports, the 35-year-old Oleron resident “deliberately hit several pedestrians and cyclists” along a road joining two towns on the scenic island off the city of La Rochelle, prosecutor Arnaud Laraize said. Also read: ‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win The suspect shouted “Allahu Akbar” (Arabic for “God is Greatest”) when arrested by police, the local prosecutor, Arnaud Laraize, told Sud Ouest newspaper. BFM reported that the suspect apprehended was known to the police for disorderly conduct and petty crime, including drunk driving. The French daily Le Parisien said investigators indicated the suspect may have had a history of mental health issues. Yael Braun-Pivet, President of France’s lower house, the National Assembly, said her thoughts were "with those injured this morning on the island of Oleron, victims of an attack of unprecedented violence." "The justice system must respond with all necessary clarity and determination," she wrote on X. Also read: Asim Munir to get more powers? Shehbaz Sharif pitches amendment that could make serious changes in Pakistani constitution Olivier Falorni, MP of the centrist Democrat Movement, addressed the National Assembly, saying that “there is a sense of shock in the country today, and deep concern for the victims.”

Among the injured, two were reported critical. The Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, said an investigation has been opened and he was heading to the scene.

Car rams pedestrians in France, injures 10; driver, 35, detained

The death toll from Typhoon Kalmaegi in the central Philippines has risen above 100 on Wednesday (Nov 5) as the deadly storm left trails of devastation on Cebu province, resulting in the worst flooding in recent memory. The floodwaters rushed through towns and cities, sweeping away cars, huge shipping containers and damaging houses on their way. Several chilling videos from the country emerged on social media showing the extent of damage caused by the typhoon.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">DON’T LOOK AWAY! This is Cebu, Philippines, where the death toll from Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) has climbed to 92. Homes destroyed. Entire neighbourhoods swept away. These are people like you and me, children, parents, families, their lives changed forever. Why do some disasters… <a href="https://t.co/1qcpAtzXdy">pic.twitter.com/1qcpAtzXdy</a>&mdash; Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1986013891197874628?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">❗️❗️ HORRIFIC flooding across Cebu, Philippines after Typhoon Kalmaegi (TinoPH). Homes gone. Streets underwater. Families displaced. This. Is. Not. Normal. Warmer oceans = stronger storms Climate change = worse flooding What we’re seeing in Cebu is part of a growing global… <a href="https://t.co/9fAM2daPBV">pic.twitter.com/9fAM2daPBV</a>&mdash; Volcaholic 🌋 (@volcaholic1) <a href="https://twitter.com/volcaholic1/status/1985667003265294605?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The storm brought unprecedented rain of about 183 millimetres (seven inches) in the 24 hours before Kalmaegi's landfall around Cebu City. The area gets a monthly average rainfall of 131 millimetres, according to an AFP report citing weather specialist Charmagne Varilla. The area around Cebu City was deluged with 183 millimetres (seven inches) of rain in the 24 hours before Kalmaegi's landfall, well over its 131-millimetre monthly average, weather specialist Charmagne Varilla told AFP. The heavy rain triggered floods and loosened volcanic mudflows that buried homes in Canlaon City.Provincial governor Pamela Baricuatro on Tuesday (Nov 4) described the situation as “unprecedented” and “devastating”. Nearly 800,000 people were evacuated from the typhoon’s path.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-difficult-night-for-all-hurricane-melissa-makes-landfall-in-cuba-735-000-evacuated-1761732616238">‘Difficult night for all’: Hurricane Melissa makes landfall in Cuba, 735,000 evacuated</a>Meanwhile, scientists have warned that climate change is driving storms to become more powerful. The warming of oceans results in typhoons strengthening rapidly, and a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, which results in heavier rainfall.<h2>More storms expected in Philippines this year?</h2>On average, the Philippines witnesses about 20 storms and typhoons every year. While the country has already reached its average with the latest typhoon, Kalmaegi, weather specialists have predicted three to five more storms in the country by December end.In September, the country was hit by two major storms, including Super Typhoon Ragasa, which killed 14 people in Taiwan.

Meanwhile, scientists have warned that climate change is driving storms to become more powerful. The warming of oceans results in typhoons strengthening rapidly, and a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, which results in heavier rainfall.

The death toll from Typhoon Kalmaegi in the central Philippines has risen above 100 on Wednesday (Nov 5) as the deadly storm left trails of devastation on Cebu province, resulting in the worst flooding in recent memory. The floodwaters rushed through towns and cities, sweeping away cars, huge shipping containers and damaging houses on their way. Several chilling videos from the country emerged on social media showing the extent of damage caused by the typhoon.

Meanwhile, scientists have warned that climate change is driving storms to become more powerful. The warming of oceans results in typhoons strengthening rapidly, and a warmer atmosphere holds more moisture, which results in heavier rainfall.

VIDEO | Chilling visuals emerge after Typhoon Kalmaegi devastates Philippines, killing 100

Zohran Mamdani has won New York mayoral polls. During the campaign, he was caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque. His old social media posts include showing the middle finger to a statue of Christopher Columbus in Astoria and a series of tweets in which he appears to be defending US cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who was linked to the terrorist group al-Qaida. He had also visited a Brooklyn mosque whose cleric had last year called for the “annihilation of Israel" and praised Hamas.&nbsp;<h2>Mamdani shows middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria</h2>In a tweet from June 2020 that has resurfaced on X after Mamdani's victory, he was seen showing a middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria and had written, "Take it down", calling for the removal of the statue. He was running for state office at that time. A report on the Times of India quoted Angelo Vivolo, the president of Columbus Heritage Coalition, saying that he will never support Mamdani. "We will defend Columbus Day and Columbus statues," he said. According per the report, left-wing politicians tend to target Columbus statues and Columbus Day because of how the explorer treated Native Americans when he sailed to North America.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Take it down. <a href="https://t.co/7Bmis8hnnh">pic.twitter.com/7Bmis8hnnh</a>&mdash; Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani/status/1273410176003997697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Mamdani appears to defend Anwar al-Awlaki in old posts&nbsp;</h2>In yet another post from 2015 that has resurfaced now, Mamdani shared an article about the FBI’s surveillance of Anwar al-Awlaki, a US-born cleric later linked to the terror group al-Qaida and wrote on X (then Twitter), “Why no proper interrogation of what it means for the FBI to have conducted an extensive survey into Awlaki's private life?” In another post, he said, “How could Awlaki have ever trusted the FBI to not release surveillance, especially if he continued to critique the state? Why no further discussion of how Awlaki's knowledge of surveillance eventually led him to al-Qaeda? Or what does that say about the efficacy of surveillance?”<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gu5ZCDgWsAAFKZP?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" alt="Image"></figure>Al-Awlaki, born in New Mexico to Yemeni parents and was a well-known imam at mosques in San Diego and Virginia. According to a report by the New York Post, he had contact with three of the September 11, 2001, hijackers. He was also connected to multiple attacks and plots, including the Fort Hood shootings in November 2009. After the 9/11 attacks in 2001, the FBI began monitoring him. In 2004, he went back to Yemen. In mid-2006, he was arrested by the Yemeni authorities and spent approximately one and a half year in jail. Post his release, he became hostile towards the US government, and by 2010, he appeared numerous times in the videos of al-Qaida. In 2010, Awlaki was placed on the US government’s official targeted-killing list, as authorised by President Barack Obama. That designation meant that, despite his US citizenship, Awlaki was considered a military enemy of the United States. On September 30, 2011, the Central Intelligence Agency used two drones to target Awlaki in Yemen, killing him.<h2>Zohran Mamdani in the Brooklyn mosque</h2>His visit to Brooklyn mosque also raised questions. In a video from inside the mosque, Mamdani can be seen standing beside cleric Sheikh Muhammad Al-Barr at the Islamic Society of Bay Ridge. “It was a privilege to join Jummah prayers at the Islamic Society of Bay Ridge today,” Mamdani captioned a post on January 17 this year. The post went viral as it was made five months after Al-Barr in a sermon at the same mosque, was heard appealing God to “liberate Palestine from the occupiers and the plunderers” and “annihilate” the occupiers. “Oh Allah, those who occupied their lands, and those who betrayed and deserted them, and those who spilled their blood,” Al-Barr said in Arabic, according to New York Post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">It was a privilege to join Jummah prayers at the Islamic Society of Bay Ridge today. <a href="https://t.co/3WjtQLohtv">pic.twitter.com/3WjtQLohtv</a>&mdash; Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani/status/1880353202153099553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Same mosque. Same Imam. 5 months apart. To say Zohran Mamdani supports Islamic terrorism is an understatement. <a href="https://twitter.com/MEMRIReports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEMRIReports</a>: “Brooklyn Friday Sermon By Imam Muhammad Al-Barr: Oh Allah, Annihilate The Occupiers Of Palestine” <a href="https://t.co/XKlNdgsAN5">pic.twitter.com/XKlNdgsAN5</a> <a href="https://t.co/wNOg6Z1j9t">https://t.co/wNOg6Z1j9t</a>&mdash; Rod Sales 🏹 ✡︎🎗️ (@sanhedrin72a4) <a href="https://twitter.com/sanhedrin72a4/status/1938673463100874866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Zohran Mamdani's victory</h2>Zohran Mamdani has created history as he won New York City Mayoral elections to become the first Indian-American of Muslim faith to win the race. Mamdani, who won the Democratic primary earlier this year, was facing former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, an independent candidate, and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in the key mayoral election. Mamdani will take office on January 1, 2026, becoming the city's youngest mayor in more than a century. Thanking the voters for the mandate, Mamdani said that New York will be the light in political darkness of the country. He directly addressed US President Donald Trump, took a swipe at now defeated Andrew Cuomo and then, came straight to the main point - his vision to make New York city “affordable and accessible.”&nbsp;

New York City's mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has been caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque during the Mayoral campaign trail amid continuous attacks by US President Donald Trump

Zohran Mamdani has won New York mayoral polls. During the campaign, he was caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque. His old social media posts include showing the middle finger to a statue of Christopher Columbus in Astoria and a series of tweets in which he appears to be defending US cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who was linked to the terrorist group al-Qaida. He had also visited a Brooklyn mosque whose cleric had last year called for the “annihilation of Israel" and praised Hamas. Mamdani shows middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria In a tweet from June 2020 that has resurfaced on X after Mamdani's victory, he was seen showing a middle finger to Christopher Columbus in Astoria and had written, "Take it down", calling for the removal of the statue. He was running for state office at that time. A report on the Times of India quoted Angelo Vivolo, the president of Columbus Heritage Coalition, saying that he will never support Mamdani. "We will defend Columbus Day and Columbus statues," he said. According per the report, left-wing politicians tend to target Columbus statues and Columbus Day because of how the explorer treated Native Americans when he sailed to North America.

New York City's mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has been caught up in controversy over his old social media posts and his visit to a Brooklyn mosque during the Mayoral campaign trail amid continuous attacks by US President Donald Trump

Middle finger to Columbus, pic with anti-Israel cleric, questions on al-Qaeda terrorist: When Mamdani landed into controversy for social media posts

India is about to make another big sale of its homegrown BrahMos supersonic missile, and this time the buyer is Indonesia. Defence sources have told ANI that India and Indonesia have finished almost all the paperwork and formalities for this deal. Now they are just waiting for Russia's approval before they can sign on the dotted line. This is not a small matter — it shows that India's defence industry is really growing and that weapons made in our own country are now being trusted by other nations.The talks between India and Indonesia about BrahMos have been going on for quite some time. But things became more serious when top Indonesian political and military leaders came to New Delhi in January this year. They discussed this missile deal in great detail. Then, when President Prabowo Subianto visited India from January 23 to 26, it became clear that both countries wanted to work together more closely on defence matters. Even India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan visited Indonesia recently, which shows that military ties between the two nations are getting stronger with each passing month.This is not the first time India has exported BrahMos missiles to another country. India had already signed a ₹3,500 crore deal with the Philippines and had delivered the missiles to them. That deal caught the attention of defence experts around the world because it showed that countries in Southeast Asia are now serious about protecting their waters and interests in the region. The Philippines needed these missiles to strengthen its position, and India was able to provide exactly what they wanted. Now Indonesia is following the same path.But why is there so much interest in BrahMos? To understand that, you need to know what makes this missile so special. BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile that was developed jointly by India and Russia. The name itself is a combination of two great rivers — the Brahmaputra in India and the Moskva in Russia. This missile is incredibly fast. It travels at a speed of around Mach 2.8 to 3.0, which means it can reach speeds of approximately 3,430 to 3,675 kilometres per hour. At that speed, it is very difficult for enemy defence systems to detect and stop it in time.The export version of BrahMos has a range of about 290 kilometres. But the real strength of this missile is its versatility. It can be launched from different platforms — from land-based launchers, from ships, from submarines, and even from aircraft. This flexibility makes it a very attractive option for any country that wants to build a strong defence system. A missile that can be used in so many different ways gives military planners many options during a conflict or crisis situation.India's recent military experience has also shown that BrahMos works very well in actual combat conditions. During the India-Pakistan clash in May this year, BrahMos missiles proved their real strength. This real-world performance has made other countries even more interested in buying this weapon system. When a missile performs well not just in tests but in actual conflict, it builds tremendous confidence among potential buyers.Indonesia's interest in BrahMos makes perfect strategic sense. Right now, Indonesia's Navy uses the Russian-made Yakhont missile system, but it is installed on only one frigate called KRI Oswald Siahaan. Yakhont is also a supersonic anti-ship missile, but it is not as advanced or flexible as BrahMos. BrahMos belongs to a newer generation of missiles and has a much more advanced guidance system. So even though Indonesia already has some supersonic missile capability, BrahMos will add and improve what Yakhont alone cannot provide.Why does Indonesia need such powerful anti-ship missiles? The answer lies in geography and trade. Indonesia controls some of the most important sea routes in the world. Major choke points like the Malacca Strait, Sunda Strait, Lombok Strait, and Makassar Strait pass through Indonesian waters. These are not just important for Indonesia — they are vital for global trade. About 40 percent of the world's shipping passes through these sea routes. If these waters are not secure, it affects trade between Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.These choke points are also very different in size. The Lombok Strait is just 18 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, while the Makassar Strait can be up to 300 kilometres wide. This means Indonesia needs weapons systems that can cover both narrow passages and wide stretches of water effectively. BrahMos, with its 290-kilometre range, can help fill the gaps in Indonesia's current anti-ship missile coverage at these strategic locations. By deploying BrahMos at key points, Indonesia can better protect its maritime territory and also ensure that these crucial global shipping lanes remain safe.But this deal is not just about military hardware. There is a much deeper strategic calculation happening here. By choosing to buy BrahMos from India, Indonesia is trying to diversify its sources of weapons. For many years, countries in Southeast Asia have depended heavily on weapons from a few traditional suppliers. But today's world is full of geopolitical tensions, and depending too much on countries that are caught up in those tensions can create supply chain problems in the future. By adding India as a major defence supplier, Indonesia is reducing that risk.There is another important angle to this deal — something called CAATSA. This is an American law that can impose sanctions on countries that buy certain weapons from Russia or China. Indonesia is worried about facing CAATSA sanctions if it continues to rely too much on Russian or Chinese military equipment. India has made it very clear that BrahMos is CAATSA-free because the main components and technology are now made inside India. This is not just a claim — it has been proven in practice. The Philippines is a close ally of the United States, and yet its BrahMos deal with India went through smoothly without any problems from Washington. This gives Indonesia confidence that buying BrahMos will not create diplomatic headaches with the United States.Indonesia became a member of BRICS on January 6 last year. BRICS now includes ten countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE. Being part of BRICS gives Indonesia more options for economic and strategic partnerships. The BrahMos deal is one example of how Indonesia is using these new relationships to strengthen its defence capabilities while maintaining good relations with traditional partners like the United States.For India, this deal means much more than just revenue from weapon sales. It is proof that India's defence industry has come of age. For decades, India was a buyer of weapons from other countries. Now India is becoming a seller. This is a huge shift. The success of BrahMos exports shows that India can design, manufacture, and sell sophisticated weapons systems that compete with the best in the world. Every time another country chooses BrahMos, it builds India's reputation as a reliable defence partner.The BrahMos deal with Indonesia is also good for India's "Make in India" initiative. When weapons made in India are bought by other countries, it creates jobs here, builds technological capabilities, and brings in foreign exchange. It also encourages more investment in research and development. If Indian companies know that their products can be exported, they will invest more in creating new and better weapons systems.As India and Indonesia wait for Russia's final approval, defence analysts around the world are watching closely. If this deal goes through, it will send a strong signal to other countries in Southeast Asia and beyond. It will show that India is a credible alternative source for advanced weapons systems. It will prove that countries no longer have to choose only between Western suppliers or Russia and China — there is now another option, and that option is India.The BrahMos story is really the story of India's rise as a defence manufacturing power. And Indonesia's decision to buy this missile system shows that the world is taking notice.

Even Indian Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan visited Indonesia recently, which shows that military ties between the two nations are getting stronger with each passing month.

India is about to make another big sale of its homegrown BrahMos supersonic missile, and this time the buyer is Indonesia. Defence sources have told ANI that India and Indonesia have finished almost all the paperwork and formalities for this deal. Now they are just waiting for Russia's approval before they can sign on the dotted line. This is not a small matter — it shows that India's defence industry is really growing and that weapons made in our own country are now being trusted by other nations. The talks between India and Indonesia about BrahMos have been going on for quite some time. But things became more serious when top Indonesian political and military leaders came to New Delhi in January this year. They discussed this missile deal in great detail. Then, when President Prabowo Subianto visited India from January 23 to 26, it became clear that both countries wanted to work together more closely on defence matters. Even India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan visited Indonesia recently, which shows that military ties between the two nations are getting stronger with each passing month. This is not the first time India has exported BrahMos missiles to another country. India had already signed a ₹3,500 crore deal with the Philippines and had delivered the missiles to them. That deal caught the attention of defence experts around the world because it showed that countries in Southeast Asia are now serious about protecting their waters and interests in the region. The Philippines needed these missiles to strengthen its position, and India was able to provide exactly what they wanted. Now Indonesia is following the same path. But why is there so much interest in BrahMos? To understand that, you need to know what makes this missile so special. BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile that was developed jointly by India and Russia. The name itself is a combination of two great rivers — the Brahmaputra in India and the Moskva in Russia. This missile is incredibly fast. It travels at a speed of around Mach 2.8 to 3.0, which means it can reach speeds of approximately 3,430 to 3,675 kilometres per hour. At that speed, it is very difficult for enemy defence systems to detect and stop it in time. The export version of BrahMos has a range of about 290 kilometres. But the real strength of this missile is its versatility. It can be launched from different platforms — from land-based launchers, from ships, from submarines, and even from aircraft. This flexibility makes it a very attractive option for any country that wants to build a strong defence system. A missile that can be used in so many different ways gives military planners many options during a conflict or crisis situation. India's recent military experience has also shown that BrahMos works very well in actual combat conditions. During the India-Pakistan clash in May this year, BrahMos missiles proved their real strength. This real-world performance has made other countries even more interested in buying this weapon system. When a missile performs well not just in tests but in actual conflict, it builds tremendous confidence among potential buyers. Indonesia's interest in BrahMos makes perfect strategic sense. Right now, Indonesia's Navy uses the Russian-made Yakhont missile system, but it is installed on only one frigate called KRI Oswald Siahaan. Yakhont is also a supersonic anti-ship missile, but it is not as advanced or flexible as BrahMos. BrahMos belongs to a newer generation of missiles and has a much more advanced guidance system. So even though Indonesia already has some supersonic missile capability, BrahMos will add and improve what Yakhont alone cannot provide. Why does Indonesia need such powerful anti-ship missiles? The answer lies in geography and trade. Indonesia controls some of the most important sea routes in the world. Major choke points like the Malacca Strait, Sunda Strait, Lombok Strait, and Makassar Strait pass through Indonesian waters. These are not just important for Indonesia — they are vital for global trade. About 40 percent of the world's shipping passes through these sea routes. If these waters are not secure, it affects trade between Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. These choke points are also very different in size. The Lombok Strait is just 18 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, while the Makassar Strait can be up to 300 kilometres wide. This means Indonesia needs weapons systems that can cover both narrow passages and wide stretches of water effectively. BrahMos, with its 290-kilometre range, can help fill the gaps in Indonesia's current anti-ship missile coverage at these strategic locations. By deploying BrahMos at key points, Indonesia can better protect its maritime territory and also ensure that these crucial global shipping lanes remain safe. But this deal is not just about military hardware. There is a much deeper strategic calculation happening here. By choosing to buy BrahMos from India, Indonesia is trying to diversify its sources of weapons. For many years, countries in Southeast Asia have depended heavily on weapons from a few traditional suppliers. But today's world is full of geopolitical tensions, and depending too much on countries that are caught up in those tensions can create supply chain problems in the future. By adding India as a major defence supplier, Indonesia is reducing that risk. There is another important angle to this deal — something called CAATSA. This is an American law that can impose sanctions on countries that buy certain weapons from Russia or China. Indonesia is worried about facing CAATSA sanctions if it continues to rely too much on Russian or Chinese military equipment. India has made it very clear that BrahMos is CAATSA-free because the main components and technology are now made inside India. This is not just a claim — it has been proven in practice. The Philippines is a close ally of the United States, and yet its BrahMos deal with India went through smoothly without any problems from Washington. This gives Indonesia confidence that buying BrahMos will not create diplomatic headaches with the United States. Indonesia became a member of BRICS on January 6 last year. BRICS now includes ten countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, and the UAE. Being part of BRICS gives Indonesia more options for economic and strategic partnerships. The BrahMos deal is one example of how Indonesia is using these new relationships to strengthen its defence capabilities while maintaining good relations with traditional partners like the United States. For India, this deal means much more than just revenue from weapon sales. It is proof that India's defence industry has come of age. For decades, India was a buyer of weapons from other countries. Now India is becoming a seller. This is a huge shift. The success of BrahMos exports shows that India can design, manufacture, and sell sophisticated weapons systems that compete with the best in the world. Every time another country chooses BrahMos, it builds India's reputation as a reliable defence partner. The BrahMos deal with Indonesia is also good for India's "Make in India" initiative. When weapons made in India are bought by other countries, it creates jobs here, builds technological capabilities, and brings in foreign exchange. It also encourages more investment in research and development. If Indian companies know that their products can be exported, they will invest more in creating new and better weapons systems. As India and Indonesia wait for Russia's final approval, defence analysts around the world are watching closely. If this deal goes through, it will send a strong signal to other countries in Southeast Asia and beyond. It will show that India is a credible alternative source for advanced weapons systems. It will prove that countries no longer have to choose only between Western suppliers or Russia and China — there is now another option, and that option is India. The BrahMos story is really the story of India's rise as a defence manufacturing power. And Indonesia's decision to buy this missile system shows that the world is taking notice.

Even India's Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan visited Indonesia recently, which shows that military ties between the two nations are getting stronger with each passing month.

India's BrahMos gains traction: Why Indonesia is buying the Supersonic Missile

Amid increasing racist attacks towards Indians, a new video surfaced on social media showing an Indian man being assaulted by a Canadian individual inside a fast-food outlet in Toronto. The clip has gone viral on social media, sparking debate online. While most people expressed outrage on social media, some users also fueled hate by making racist comments against the man who was assaulted.In the video, which reportedly took place near a ‘Mobile Order Pick-Up’ counter inside a McDonald’s, a man wearing a Toronto Blue Jays jacket can be seen walking towards another man, who seemed to be of Indian origin. The Canadian man then suddenly raged and threw his phone aside. Moments later, the man can be seen advancing towards the Indian man, then shoving him and grabbing him by the collar in an intoxicated state.In a heated exchange, the Canadian man accuses the man of “acting superior”. To this, the Indian responds by saying, “You might get yourself in trouble.”“What did you say to me?” the aggressor responds. Soon, the altercation turns physical and the Canadian man can be seen pushing the Indian man, confronting him. While the Indian man does not retaliate against the assaulter, staff members and bystanders urge them to take the dispute outside the restaurant. However, when the Canadian man does not stop, he is escorted out of the premises.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A shocking video has surfaced showing a drunk Canadian man attacking an Indian man simply because he believes the Indian is acting superior. Until Indians abroad stand up to bullies like this, they will be run over again and again and remain easy targets. Don’t let fear silence… <a href="https://t.co/JwtZ0ghYrh">pic.twitter.com/JwtZ0ghYrh</a>&mdash; Meru (@MeruOnX) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeruOnX/status/1985229497315041425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Netizens react</h2>The social media comments sections in the video were flooded with mixed reactions. While some defended the Indian man, condemning the assault, some still defended the violent attack.“Why hasn’t this guy been identified yet?” One user questioned. Another said, “This is still unacceptable and I agree we have an immigration problem but this type of behavior is pathetic.” A third wrote, “This is absolutely unacceptable and deeply disturbing. Hate and racism have no place anywhere. I hope the authorities are investigating this incident thoroughly and taking appropriate action against the attacker. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected.”However, several users wrote racist comments telling the Indian man to “go back to his country.” One user said, “You're not welcome here. Don't come.” Another said, “Move back to India, no one f***ing wants you here.”

The social media comments sections in the video were flooded with mixed reactions. While some defended the Indian man, condemning the assault, some still defended the violent attack.

Amid increasing racist attacks towards Indians, a new video surfaced on social media showing an Indian man being assaulted by a Canadian individual inside a fast-food outlet in Toronto. The clip has gone viral on social media, sparking debate online. While most people expressed outrage on social media, some users also fueled hate by making racist comments against the man who was assaulted. In the video, which reportedly took place near a ‘Mobile Order Pick-Up’ counter inside a McDonald’s, a man wearing a Toronto Blue Jays jacket can be seen walking towards another man, who seemed to be of Indian origin. The Canadian man then suddenly raged and threw his phone aside. Moments later, the man can be seen advancing towards the Indian man, then shoving him and grabbing him by the collar in an intoxicated state. In a heated exchange, the Canadian man accuses the man of “acting superior”. To this, the Indian responds by saying, “You might get yourself in trouble.” “What did you say to me?” the aggressor responds. Soon, the altercation turns physical and the Canadian man can be seen pushing the Indian man, confronting him. While the Indian man does not retaliate against the assaulter, staff members and bystanders urge them to take the dispute outside the restaurant. However, when the Canadian man does not stop, he is escorted out of the premises.

The social media comments sections in the video were flooded with mixed reactions. While some defended the Indian man, condemning the assault, some still defended the violent attack.

‘Move back to India’: Racist attack on Indian man in Canada sparks debate online

Ahead of the national elections, Bangladesh has banned Zakir Naik, an Indian-origin Islamic cleric, from entering the country. The move came on Tuesday (Nov 4) after a meeting of the Law and Order Core Committee at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Dhaka. As per officials, the decision was taken on the grounds of security and logistical concerns.&nbsp;What did the Home Ministry say?&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-got-our-a-es-handed-to-us-vivek-ramaswamy-thinks-republicans-need-to-learn-2-things-after-mamdani-s-win-1762348114786">‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win</a>&nbsp;Bangladesh's Home Ministry said that a local organisation had invited Naik to speak at a two-day religious event in Dhaka on November 28 and 29. There were also plans for further visits, but this proposal was heavily criticised by security agencies.&nbsp;In the Home Ministry meeting, it was decided that Naik's presence would draw a massive crowd and would require heavy security deployment at a time when the staff is already occupied with election duties. Ultimately, authorities decided that Naik's visit would only be possible after the elections were concluded.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/zohran-mamdani-and-wife-rama-duwaji-s-love-story-might-restore-your-faith-in-dating-apps-1751008624066">Zohran Mamdani and wife Rama Duwaji's love story might restore your faith in dating apps</a>&nbsp;Naik is a controversial personality across South Asia. In 2016, after the deadly terrorist attack on the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka, Indian authorities accused him of promoting extremism.&nbsp;After that, the Islamic preacher fled India and has been living in Malaysia. He is now a permanent resident of the country.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asim-munir-to-get-more-powers-shehbaz-sharif-pitches-amendment-that-could-make-serious-changes-in-pakistani-constitution-1762263854774">Asim Munir to get more powers? Shehbaz Sharif pitches amendment that could make serious changes in Pakistani constitution</a>

Bangladesh Home Ministry said that a local organisation had invited Naik to speak at a two-day religious event in Dhaka on November 28 and 29. There were also plans for further visits, but this proposal was heavily criticised by security agencies.



Ahead of the national elections, Bangladesh has banned Zakir Naik, an Indian-origin Islamic cleric, from entering the country. The move came on Tuesday (Nov 4) after a meeting of the Law and Order Core Committee at the Ministry of Home Affairs in Dhaka. As per officials, the decision was taken on the grounds of security and logistical concerns. What did the Home Ministry say? Also read: ‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy thinks Republicans need to learn 2 things after Mamdani’s win Bangladesh's Home Ministry said that a local organisation had invited Naik to speak at a two-day religious event in Dhaka on November 28 and 29. There were also plans for further visits, but this proposal was heavily criticised by security agencies. In the Home Ministry meeting, it was decided that Naik's presence would draw a massive crowd and would require heavy security deployment at a time when the staff is already occupied with election duties. Ultimately, authorities decided that Naik's visit would only be possible after the elections were concluded. Also read: Zohran Mamdani and wife Rama Duwaji's love story might restore your faith in dating apps Naik is a controversial personality across South Asia. In 2016, after the deadly terrorist attack on the Holey Artisan Bakery in Dhaka, Indian authorities accused him of promoting extremism. After that, the Islamic preacher fled India and has been living in Malaysia. He is now a permanent resident of the country. Also read: Asim Munir to get more powers? Shehbaz Sharif pitches amendment that could make serious changes in Pakistani constitution

Bangladesh's Home Ministry said that a local organisation had invited Naik to speak at a two-day religious event in Dhaka on November 28 and 29. There were also plans for further visits, but this proposal was heavily criticised by security agencies.&nbsp;

Controversial Zakir Naik banned from Bangladesh till elections. Here's why

The New York Mayoral Election winner Zohran Mamdani, in his first speech, addressed US President Donald Trump and sent a four-word message to him. He asked the US president to turn the volume on for listening his speech. As the crowd cheered for Mamdani, he dared the US president and said that New Yorkers are united in against him. As he spoke, Trump shared a post on Truth Social saying, "…AND SO IT BEGINS!"&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-wins-new-york-city-s-mayoral-election-defeats-trump-backed-andrew-cuomo-curtis-sliwa-1762310323558">Zohran Mamdani creates history, wins New York City’s mayoral election, defeats Trump-backed Cuomo</a>&nbsp;"Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up.” Enthusiastic crowd cheered over his powerful message as he continued and said, “If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to overcome, it’s the city that gave rise to him."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Mamdani: &quot;Donald Trump, since I know you&#39;re watching, I have four words for you: Turn the volume up.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/AOFUquvYBQ">pic.twitter.com/AOFUquvYBQ</a>&mdash; Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) <a href="https://twitter.com/atrupar/status/1985929807998128324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;“To get to any of us, you will have to get through all of us,” Mamdani declared. Vowing to end "the culture of corruption" that allowed billionaires like Trump to evade fair taxation, he said, "alongside unions and expand labor protections because we know, just as Donald Trump does, that when working people have ironclad rights, the bosses who seek to extort them become very small indeed.” Hailing the decision taken by New Yorkers, Mamdani said that they have shown that "hope is alive," promising, "In this moment of political darkness, New York will be the light."&nbsp;Read More |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-have-toppled-political-dynasty-mamdani-s-first-reaction-after-big-win-in-ny-mayoral-polls-1762316914172"> ‘We have toppled political dynasty’: Mamdani’s first reaction after BIG win in NY mayoral polls</a>&nbsp;Mamdani became the first Indian-American of Muslim faith to win the race. He will also be the city's youngest mayor in more than a century. He will take office on January 1, 2026. Born in Kampala, Uganda, but was brought up with his family in New York City, Mamdani became American citizen in 2018. His mother, Mira Nair, is a celebrated film director and his father Professor Mahmood Mamdani, teaches at Columbia. Both of them are Harvard alumni.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-zohran-mamdani-wins-new-york-mayor-elections-but-he-opposes-pm-modi-here-s-why-1762317715428">Indian-American Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayor elections but he opposes PM Modi - Here's why</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani, the first Indian-American and youngest New York mayor-elect, delivered a bold message to Donald Trump: “Turn the volume up.” He vowed to fight corruption, defend workers’ rights, and make New York “the light” in political darkness after defeating Trump-backed Andrew Cuomo.

The New York Mayoral Election winner Zohran Mamdani, in his first speech, addressed US President Donald Trump and sent a four-word message to him. He asked the US president to turn the volume on for listening his speech. As the crowd cheered for Mamdani, he dared the US president and said that New Yorkers are united in against him. As he spoke, Trump shared a post on Truth Social saying, "…AND SO IT BEGINS!" Read More | Zohran Mamdani creates history, wins New York City’s mayoral election, defeats Trump-backed Cuomo "Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up.” Enthusiastic crowd cheered over his powerful message as he continued and said, “If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to overcome, it’s the city that gave rise to him."

Zohran Mamdani, the first Indian-American and youngest New York mayor-elect, delivered a bold message to Donald Trump: “Turn the volume up.” He vowed to fight corruption, defend workers’ rights, and make New York “the light” in political darkness after defeating Trump-backed Andrew Cuomo.

'I know your are...': Zohran Mamdani's four-word message for Trump in first speech after winning NY mayoral polls

Zohran Mamdani has become the New York City mayor. But the enthusiasm for the 34-year-old Democrat becoming a national-level politician akin to Barack Obama might be misplaced. The direct endorsement of Mamdani by the former president gave the NYC mayoral race, essentially a local election in the US, renewed global attention. This is partly due to Mamdani’s origin—Indian and Muslim roots—and his political stance on controversial issues like the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Mamdani is New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. In case you have not noticed him yet, it is high time.<h2>Who is Zohran Mamdani?</h2>Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born on 18 October 1991 in Kampala, Uganda, to Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani and Indian-origin filmmaker Mira Nair. He moved to New York City at the age of seven and later studied at Bowdoin College. He co-founded the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter during college, and was active in community organising and hip-hop. Before entering politics, Mamdani worked as a foreclosure-prevention housing counsellor in Queens.Mamdani joined the Democratic Socialists of America and challenged the Democratic establishment.<h2>Mamdani’s political career</h2>In 2020, Mamdani defeated five-term incumbent Aravella Simotas to win a seat in the New York State Assembly. Representing Astoria, Queens, he worked on tenant rights, public transit funding, and taxi driver debt relief, including a hunger strike that secured $450 million in aid.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-much-better-looking-person-is-zohran-mamdani-left-wing-version-of-trump-here-s-what-us-president-said-1762132235241">'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said</a><h2>Mamdani’s mayoral race is focused on local issues</h2>Mamdani’s mayoral campaign focused on affordability and social equity. He advocated freezing rents, fare-free buses, universal childcare, city-owned grocery stores, and a 30-dollar minimum wage by 2030. He also wants to tax corporations and millionaires with the aim of raising nine billion dollars.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-new-york-mayor-election-2025-updates-obama-offers-support-to-zohran-mamdani-donald-trump-us-elections-nyc-mayor-1762254876191">New York Mayor Election 2025 updates: Obama offers support to Zohran Mamdani</a><h2>Is Mamdani the next Obama?</h2>Some media outlets and observers compared Mamdani to a “young Obama.” The comparisons are based on similar life stories: fathers who were East African scholars, backgrounds in community organising, and the ability to appeal to younger voters through personal charisma and authenticity.While the comparison is appealing, it is possibly overstated. Obama’s message was broadly unifying and centrist, whereas Mamdani’s is more radical and divisive. Obama aimed to appeal across the political spectrum, while Mamdani’s rhetoric and policies are tailored to the Democratic Socialist left.<h2>Mamdani cannot become US president because…</h2>Mamdani cannot legally become President of the United States because he is not a natural-born citizen. He was naturalised in 2018, and regardless of his popularity, Mamdani will never be able to run for president under the current law.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-best-mayor-potus-endorses-cuomo-for-nyc-mayor-says-will-stop-federal-funding-if-communist-candidate-zohran-mamdani-wins-1762229434725">Trump’s 'best NYC mayor'? POTUS endorses Cuomo, says will stop federal funding if 'Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani' wins</a><h2>How high can Mamdani go?</h2>Mamdani can run for the US Senate, the House of Representatives, or even Governor of New York. He could become a figurehead for a new generation of left-leaning politicians. With support from the Democratic Socialists of America, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Bernie Sanders, he could emerge as a national progressive voice.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayoral-election-zohran-mamdani-a-threat-to-nyc-1762185180063/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayoral-election-zohran-mamdani-a-threat-to-nyc-1762185180063/embed</a><h2>Mamdani is a polarising figure</h2>Mamdani’s stances on foreign affairs, particularly on Israel and Palestine, have made him a deeply polarising figure. During the Gaza war, he called Israel’s actions genocide while refusing to condemn the slogan “globalise the intifada.” He has both fervent supporters and harsh opponents. Republicans, including President Donald Trump, label him a communist or terrorist sympathiser. Even some Democrats, such as Hakeem Jeffries and John Fetterman, have publicly distanced themselves from him.Yet, in a city as politically diverse as New York, his outspokenness may strengthen his local base even as it limits his national appeal.<h2>A significant rise for an unlikely politician</h2>Nevertheless, Zohran Mamdani’s rise from a Queens housing counsellor to likely New York City mayor is one of the most remarkable political stories of the decade, a trajectory possible only in America, or more specifically, New York.Even though his charisma and commitment to social justice echo aspects of Obama’s early career, their paths diverge sharply: Obama became president by appealing to the centre, while Mamdani inspires the left by challenging it. Mamdani may never sit in the Oval Office, but he could still reshape New York City politics and emerge as one of the most influential progressive politicians in the United States.

Zohran Mamdani may become NYC’s first Muslim and Indian-origin mayor. The progressive figure is being compared to Obama, but legal and political limits would limit his political career. Here is what you should know about him

Zohran Mamdani has become the New York City mayor. But the enthusiasm for the 34-year-old Democrat becoming a national-level politician akin to Barack Obama might be misplaced. The direct endorsement of Mamdani by the former president gave the NYC mayoral race, essentially a local election in the US, renewed global attention. This is partly due to Mamdani’s origin—Indian and Muslim roots—and his political stance on controversial issues like the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Mamdani is New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. In case you have not noticed him yet, it is high time. Who is Zohran Mamdani? Zohran Kwame Mamdani was born on 18 October 1991 in Kampala, Uganda, to Ugandan scholar Mahmood Mamdani and Indian-origin filmmaker Mira Nair. He moved to New York City at the age of seven and later studied at Bowdoin College. He co-founded the Students for Justice in Palestine chapter during college, and was active in community organising and hip-hop. Before entering politics, Mamdani worked as a foreclosure-prevention housing counsellor in Queens. Mamdani joined the Democratic Socialists of America and challenged the Democratic establishment. Mamdani’s political career In 2020, Mamdani defeated five-term incumbent Aravella Simotas to win a seat in the New York State Assembly. Representing Astoria, Queens, he worked on tenant rights, public transit funding, and taxi driver debt relief, including a hunger strike that secured $450 million in aid. Also read: 'Much better looking person...': Is Zohran Mamdani 'left-wing version' of Trump? Here's what US president said Mamdani’s mayoral race is focused on local issues Mamdani’s mayoral campaign focused on affordability and social equity. He advocated freezing rents, fare-free buses, universal childcare, city-owned grocery stores, and a 30-dollar minimum wage by 2030. He also wants to tax corporations and millionaires with the aim of raising nine billion dollars. Also read: New York Mayor Election 2025 updates: Obama offers support to Zohran Mamdani Is Mamdani the next Obama? Some media outlets and observers compared Mamdani to a “young Obama.” The comparisons are based on similar life stories: fathers who were East African scholars, backgrounds in community organising, and the ability to appeal to younger voters through personal charisma and authenticity. While the comparison is appealing, it is possibly overstated. Obama’s message was broadly unifying and centrist, whereas Mamdani’s is more radical and divisive. Obama aimed to appeal across the political spectrum, while Mamdani’s rhetoric and policies are tailored to the Democratic Socialist left. Mamdani cannot become US president because… Mamdani cannot legally become President of the United States because he is not a natural-born citizen. He was naturalised in 2018, and regardless of his popularity, Mamdani will never be able to run for president under the current law. Also read: Trump’s 'best NYC mayor'? POTUS endorses Cuomo, says will stop federal funding if 'Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani' wins How high can Mamdani go? Mamdani can run for the US Senate, the House of Representatives, or even Governor of New York. He could become a figurehead for a new generation of left-leaning politicians. With support from the Democratic Socialists of America, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Bernie Sanders, he could emerge as a national progressive voice. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nyc-mayoral-election-zohran-mamdani-a-threat-to-nyc-1762185180063/embed Mamdani is a polarising figure Mamdani’s stances on foreign affairs, particularly on Israel and Palestine, have made him a deeply polarising figure. During the Gaza war, he called Israel’s actions genocide while refusing to condemn the slogan “globalise the intifada.” He has both fervent supporters and harsh opponents. Republicans, including President Donald Trump, label him a communist or terrorist sympathiser. Even some Democrats, such as Hakeem Jeffries and John Fetterman, have publicly distanced themselves from him. Yet, in a city as politically diverse as New York, his outspokenness may strengthen his local base even as it limits his national appeal. A significant rise for an unlikely politician Nevertheless, Zohran Mamdani’s rise from a Queens housing counsellor to likely New York City mayor is one of the most remarkable political stories of the decade, a trajectory possible only in America, or more specifically, New York. Even though his charisma and commitment to social justice echo aspects of Obama’s early career, their paths diverge sharply: Obama became president by appealing to the centre, while Mamdani inspires the left by challenging it. Mamdani may never sit in the Oval Office, but he could still reshape New York City politics and emerge as one of the most influential progressive politicians in the United States.

Zohran Mamdani has become NYC’s first Muslim and Indian-origin mayor. The progressive figure is being compared to Obama, but legal and political limits would curb his political career. Here is what you should know about him

Zohran Mamdani is New York City mayor, but is he the next Obama? Hold your horses and read this

Zohran Mamdani's election as the Mayor of New York City was watched globally. The rise of a Muslim to the key post in the city that witnessed the 9/11 attacks, the worst act of Islamist terror on US soil, is seen as problematic by many: from Trump-supporting MAGA Republicans to pro-Israel groups and even some New Yorkers and Democrats. Here is what they think.<h2>New York City, forever scarred by 9/11 terrorist attack&nbsp;</h2>Almost a quarter of a century ago, the 11 September 2001 terror attacks claimed 2,977 lives in the US. For many, it would have been inconceivable that a Muslim could be leading City Hall in 2025. But the 34‑year-old democratic socialist has overcome the barriers. The practising Muslim is now the 111th mayor of New York City, whether his detractors like it or hate it.It has been a meteoric rise for Mamdani, from a little‑known Queens assemblyman to the city’s first Muslim, Indian, South Asian, and Millennial mayor. While it is historic, his rise is problematic for many Republicans, New Yorkers, and even some moderate Democrats.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-zohran-mamdani-wins-new-york-mayor-elections-but-he-opposes-pm-modi-here-s-why-1762317715428">Indian-American Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayor elections but he opposes PM Modi - Here's why</a><h2>Why Mamdani’s rise evokes unease in a nation known for Islamophobia</h2>Beyond the Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism at the core of some views against him, Mamdani’s own statements, writings, and associations have contributed to public concern. In these, he appeared to downplay the horror of 9/11, while foregrounding Islamphpobia in post-9/11 America. For his critics, he seemed to align with anti‑American and anti‑Israel rhetoric. Hed has been accused of prioritising narratives of Muslim victimhood over the city’s collective trauma.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/controversial-remarks-of-zohran-mamdani-new-york-city-mayor-find-out-what-he-said-about-india-narendra-modi-bjp-rss-1762322572388">Controversial remarks of Zohran Mamdani, New York City mayor: Find out what he said about India, Narendra Modi, BJP, RSS</a><h2>Mamdani’s rise stirs an unusual convergence of concern across the political spectrum</h2>Led by President Donald Trump and his MAGA Republicans, Mamdani’s identity as a Muslim and a democratic socialist is being seen as a symbolic rupture in the US political narrative, which has often depicted Muslims as the enemy. Trump launched a scathing attack following Mamdani’s primary win, calling him a “100 per cent Communist Lunatic.” He went further, criticising Mamdani’s “grating voice” and “terrible looks” as emblematic of what he described as a “radical left‑wing takeover.”Trump’s rhetoric taps directly into lingering fears among Republicans, far-right groups, and conservatives about Islamist terrorism. For them, Mamdani is not just a political rival but a cultural and security threat to the city’s identity, scarred by 9/11.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zohran-mamdani-reveals-real-reason-why-he-is-critical-of-indian-pm-modi-bjp-1761118768748">Zohran Mamdani on temple run in Diwali, reveals REAL reason why he is critical of Indian PM Modi</a><h2>For many New Yorkers, 9/11 is a wound yet to heal</h2>For a generation of New Yorkers, particularly survivors of 9/11 who walked through ash-choked streets on that fateful day, Mamdani’s rise brings both symbolic and real unease. His public remarks about being Muslim and facing suspicion after 9/11 are well-known. One widely cited anecdote involves his aunt, who reportedly stopped taking the subway because she did not feel safe in her hijab. Critics have interpreted such remarks as foregrounding his family’s social discomfort over the deaths of thousands.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/-indian-origin-zohran-mamdani-clinches-historic-victory-in-mayoral-prelims-1750870374642/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/-indian-origin-zohran-mamdani-clinches-historic-victory-in-mayoral-prelims-1750870374642/embed</a><h2>Mamdani's radical reform agenda is likely to face opposition</h2>Mamdani is a populist in his own way, with a policy platform that includes radical reform of the New York Police Department and the redirection of resources from traditional security priorities.For all its glamour, New York remains a heavily policed, high-security city since 9/11. Mamdani's security reform plans have fuelled concerns among residents who feel that ideological goals might override pragmatic public safety issues in a city ever-vigilant against terrorism.<h2>Mamdani is not universally liked within his own Democratic Party</h2>Although he ran as a Democratic candidate, Mamdani has roots in the democratic socialist wing and belongs to the more vocal, left-leaning sections of the party. His candidacy and victory prompted hesitation among moderate Democrats. They view his ideological commitments and relative lack of executive experience as potential liabilities.Business leaders and centrist voices have expressed alarm too, with Wall Street strategists reportedly mobilising hedge fund and real estate donors to oppose his general election bid, fearing a radical shift—or a socialist takeover—of the city’s governance and economy. His vocal criticism of US policy toward Israel and support for Palestinian rights have also raised concerns that Democrats are providing conservatives with potent attack lines for the 2026 midterm elections.<h2>Will Mamdani bring a fresh way of looking at politics in New York and America?</h2>While supporters celebrate the diversity and fresh perspective Mamdani brings, critics argue that these virtues should not erase the need for clear commitment to New York’s resilience against terror.In the metropolis where the Freedom Tower stands as a defiant memorial opposing jihadist ideology, electing a leader who has appeared, to some, to be an apologist for 9/11 while focusing on Islamophobia feels like a betrayal of hard-won ground for many New Yorkers.

Zohran Mamdani's election as NYC's first Muslim mayor is sparking concern among Republicans, some Democrats, and 9/11 survivors. At issue are security, ideology, and sensitivity to the city’s history of terror attacks. 

Zohran Mamdani's election as the Mayor of New York City was watched globally. The rise of a Muslim to the key post in the city that witnessed the 9/11 attacks, the worst act of Islamist terror on US soil, is seen as problematic by many: from Trump-supporting MAGA Republicans to pro-Israel groups and even some New Yorkers and Democrats. Here is what they think. New York City, forever scarred by 9/11 terrorist attack Almost a quarter of a century ago, the 11 September 2001 terror attacks claimed 2,977 lives in the US. For many, it would have been inconceivable that a Muslim could be leading City Hall in 2025. But the 34‑year-old democratic socialist has overcome the barriers. The practising Muslim is now the 111th mayor of New York City, whether his detractors like it or hate it. It has been a meteoric rise for Mamdani, from a little‑known Queens assemblyman to the city’s first Muslim, Indian, South Asian, and Millennial mayor. While it is historic, his rise is problematic for many Republicans, New Yorkers, and even some moderate Democrats. Also read: Indian-American Zohran Mamdani wins New York mayor elections but he opposes PM Modi - Here's why Why Mamdani’s rise evokes unease in a nation known for Islamophobia Beyond the Islamophobia, xenophobia, and racism at the core of some views against him, Mamdani’s own statements, writings, and associations have contributed to public concern. In these, he appeared to downplay the horror of 9/11, while foregrounding Islamphpobia in post-9/11 America. For his critics, he seemed to align with anti‑American and anti‑Israel rhetoric. Hed has been accused of prioritising narratives of Muslim victimhood over the city’s collective trauma. Also read: Controversial remarks of Zohran Mamdani, New York City mayor: Find out what he said about India, Narendra Modi, BJP, RSS Mamdani’s rise stirs an unusual convergence of concern across the political spectrum Led by President Donald Trump and his MAGA Republicans, Mamdani’s identity as a Muslim and a democratic socialist is being seen as a symbolic rupture in the US political narrative, which has often depicted Muslims as the enemy. Trump launched a scathing attack following Mamdani’s primary win, calling him a “100 per cent Communist Lunatic.” He went further, criticising Mamdani’s “grating voice” and “terrible looks” as emblematic of what he described as a “radical left‑wing takeover.” Trump’s rhetoric taps directly into lingering fears among Republicans, far-right groups, and conservatives about Islamist terrorism. For them, Mamdani is not just a political rival but a cultural and security threat to the city’s identity, scarred by 9/11. Also read: Zohran Mamdani on temple run in Diwali, reveals REAL reason why he is critical of Indian PM Modi For many New Yorkers, 9/11 is a wound yet to heal For a generation of New Yorkers, particularly survivors of 9/11 who walked through ash-choked streets on that fateful day, Mamdani’s rise brings both symbolic and real unease. His public remarks about being Muslim and facing suspicion after 9/11 are well-known. One widely cited anecdote involves his aunt, who reportedly stopped taking the subway because she did not feel safe in her hijab. Critics have interpreted such remarks as foregrounding his family’s social discomfort over the deaths of thousands. https://www.wionews.com/videos/-indian-origin-zohran-mamdani-clinches-historic-victory-in-mayoral-prelims-1750870374642/embed Mamdani's radical reform agenda is likely to face opposition Mamdani is a populist in his own way, with a policy platform that includes radical reform of the New York Police Department and the redirection of resources from traditional security priorities. For all its glamour, New York remains a heavily policed, high-security city since 9/11. Mamdani's security reform plans have fuelled concerns among residents who feel that ideological goals might override pragmatic public safety issues in a city ever-vigilant against terrorism. Mamdani is not universally liked within his own Democratic Party Although he ran as a Democratic candidate, Mamdani has roots in the democratic socialist wing and belongs to the more vocal, left-leaning sections of the party. His candidacy and victory prompted hesitation among moderate Democrats. They view his ideological commitments and relative lack of executive experience as potential liabilities. Business leaders and centrist voices have expressed alarm too, with Wall Street strategists reportedly mobilising hedge fund and real estate donors to oppose his general election bid, fearing a radical shift—or a socialist takeover—of the city’s governance and economy. His vocal criticism of US policy toward Israel and support for Palestinian rights have also raised concerns that Democrats are providing conservatives with potent attack lines for the 2026 midterm elections. Will Mamdani bring a fresh way of looking at politics in New York and America? While supporters celebrate the diversity and fresh perspective Mamdani brings, critics argue that these virtues should not erase the need for clear commitment to New York’s resilience against terror. In the metropolis where the Freedom Tower stands as a defiant memorial opposing jihadist ideology, electing a leader who has appeared, to some, to be an apologist for 9/11 while focusing on Islamophobia feels like a betrayal of hard-won ground for many New Yorkers.

Zohran Mamdani's election as NYC's first Muslim mayor is sparking concern among Republicans, some Democrats, and 9/11 survivors. At issue are security, ideology, and sensitivity to the city’s history of terror attacks.&nbsp;

Why many love to hate Zohran Mamdani: First Muslim mayor at Ground Zero of 9/11 Islamist terror attack is problematic for them

New York has chosen Democratic Party’s Zohran Mamdani as its 111th&nbsp;mayor. Zohran is the first Muslim mayor and first person of South Asian descent to lead the city in its 400-year history. While Zohran has won the election purely on his own merit, his parents are too celebrities in their own right. Zohran is the son of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor and a scholar on colonialism.&nbsp;&nbsp;Zohran’s mother, Mira Nair, is a very well-known filmmaker in India and the world and has made some iconic films, including Salaam Bombay, Monsoon Wedding and The Namesake- all of which are considered global hits. Interestingly, Mira credits her son Zohran for helping her at a crucial juncture in her career.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Choosing The Namesake over Harry Potter 4</h2>During the 2018 edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, Mira Nair had revealed that she was offered to direct the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire film by Warner Bros. Mira spoke during a session at the Lit Fest.&nbsp;&nbsp;The filmmaker admitted that she was confused about whether she should take up the offer since she was already working on The Namesake.&nbsp;“I also turned down Harry Potter. They saw Vanity Fair, and they saw how vibrant and whatever voluptuous and successful for them, this was Warner Brothers, and they thought well, they'd had a big success with Alfonso Cuaron from Mexico making Harry Potter 3, so why not get the third-world rainbow coalition making Harry Potter 4,” she said.&nbsp;“I was deep into making The Namesake at that time from a beautiful novel by Jhumpa Lahiri. I had suffered my very first death in my family, my mother-in-law, who was like a mother to me, and an unexpected death due to medical malpractice, and it completely blew me away. I was deep in that melancholy, and that's what inspired me to make The Namesake because Jhumpa has written in it of this terrible melancholy of losing a parent in a foreign country, which is exactly what I was experiencing. So I was deep in the throes of like almost a month away from shooting The Namesake, and they offered me Harry Potter, and I thought I had to take these meetings because my son had learned to read from Harry Potter.”&nbsp;Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/did-you-know-nyc-s-new-mayor-zohran-mamdani-is-son-of-oscar-nominated-director-mira-nair-1762331067142">Did you know? NYC's new mayor Zohran Mamdani is son of Oscar-nominated director Mira Nair</a>&nbsp;Zohran was 14 back when Mira Nair was offered to make Harry Potter 4. The filmmaker revealed that he gave a crucial piece of advice to his mom, that changed her career trajectory for the better.&nbsp;&nbsp;The filmmaker had wondered if she should give up on The Namesake and take up directing Harry Potter.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I asked my 14-year-old son what I should do and he said to me, 'Mama many good directors can make Harry Potter but only you can make The Namesake’, and it was such a liberating and clarifying statement,” the filmmaker recalled.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dhoom-macchale-zohran-mamdani-brings-bollywood-to-ny-mentions-nehru-in-first-speech-after-win-watch-1762321650710">Dhoom macchale! Mamdani brings Bollywood to NY, mentions Nehru - WATCH</a>&nbsp;The Namesake starred Irrfan, Tabu, and Kal Penn in leading roles. Based on Jhumpa Lahiri’s book by the same name, the film remains one of the best representations of Immigrant life in America. A story of love and loss, and the great divide between Indian parents and their US-born children, The Namesake earned critical praise worldwide.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>About Zohran Mamdani&nbsp;</h2>Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor of New York City on Tuesday. The 33-year-old, far-left state lawmaker has promised to transform the government to restore power to the working class and fight back against a hostile Trump administration. Mamdani, a Democrat, defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa.&nbsp;Born to Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran was born in Uganda and moved to New York with his parents at the age of 7. He attended Bronx High School of Science and Bowdoin College in Maine. Zohran has dabbled in multiple careers before he joined politics, including working on sets of his mother’s films, and even was a rap artist for a brief period.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected Mayor of New York City helped his mother, the illustrious filmmaker Mira Nair at a crucial juncture in her career. Nair revealed earlier that she was offered to direct Harry Potter 4 at a time when she was making The Namesake. 

New York has chosen Democratic Party’s Zohran Mamdani as its 111th mayor. Zohran is the first Muslim mayor and first person of South Asian descent to lead the city in its 400-year history. While Zohran has won the election purely on his own merit, his parents are too celebrities in their own right. Zohran is the son of Oscar-nominated filmmaker Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, a Columbia University professor and a scholar on colonialism. Zohran’s mother, Mira Nair, is a very well-known filmmaker in India and the world and has made some iconic films, including Salaam Bombay, Monsoon Wedding and The Namesake- all of which are considered global hits. Interestingly, Mira credits her son Zohran for helping her at a crucial juncture in her career. Choosing The Namesake over Harry Potter 4 During the 2018 edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival, Mira Nair had revealed that she was offered to direct the Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire film by Warner Bros. Mira spoke during a session at the Lit Fest. The filmmaker admitted that she was confused about whether she should take up the offer since she was already working on The Namesake. “I also turned down Harry Potter. They saw Vanity Fair, and they saw how vibrant and whatever voluptuous and successful for them, this was Warner Brothers, and they thought well, they'd had a big success with Alfonso Cuaron from Mexico making Harry Potter 3, so why not get the third-world rainbow coalition making Harry Potter 4,” she said. “I was deep into making The Namesake at that time from a beautiful novel by Jhumpa Lahiri. I had suffered my very first death in my family, my mother-in-law, who was like a mother to me, and an unexpected death due to medical malpractice, and it completely blew me away. I was deep in that melancholy, and that's what inspired me to make The Namesake because Jhumpa has written in it of this terrible melancholy of losing a parent in a foreign country, which is exactly what I was experiencing. So I was deep in the throes of like almost a month away from shooting The Namesake, and they offered me Harry Potter, and I thought I had to take these meetings because my son had learned to read from Harry Potter.” Also see: Did you know? NYC's new mayor Zohran Mamdani is son of Oscar-nominated director Mira Nair Zohran was 14 back when Mira Nair was offered to make Harry Potter 4. The filmmaker revealed that he gave a crucial piece of advice to his mom, that changed her career trajectory for the better. The filmmaker had wondered if she should give up on The Namesake and take up directing Harry Potter. "I asked my 14-year-old son what I should do and he said to me, 'Mama many good directors can make Harry Potter but only you can make The Namesake’, and it was such a liberating and clarifying statement,” the filmmaker recalled. Also see: Dhoom macchale! Mamdani brings Bollywood to NY, mentions Nehru - WATCH The Namesake starred Irrfan, Tabu, and Kal Penn in leading roles. Based on Jhumpa Lahiri’s book by the same name, the film remains one of the best representations of Immigrant life in America. A story of love and loss, and the great divide between Indian parents and their US-born children, The Namesake earned critical praise worldwide. About Zohran Mamdani Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor of New York City on Tuesday. The 33-year-old, far-left state lawmaker has promised to transform the government to restore power to the working class and fight back against a hostile Trump administration. Mamdani, a Democrat, defeated former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Born to Mira Nair and Mahmood Mamdani, Zohran was born in Uganda and moved to New York with his parents at the age of 7. He attended Bronx High School of Science and Bowdoin College in Maine. Zohran has dabbled in multiple careers before he joined politics, including working on sets of his mother’s films, and even was a rap artist for a brief period.

Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected Mayor of New York City helped his mother, the illustrious filmmaker Mira Nair at a crucial juncture in her career. Nair revealed earlier that she was offered to direct Harry Potter 4 at a time when she was making The Namesake.&nbsp;

How a 14-year-old Zohran Mamdani helped mother Mira Nair choose between Harry Potter 4 and The Namesake

New York City has elected the Muslim and South Asian origin Zohran Mamdani as the new mayor. Born in the family of a Ugandan scholar, Mahmood Mamdani and Indian filmmaker Mira Nair, Mamdani has comprehensively defeated Cuomo after months of debate and campaigning. Once, a small-time rapper has transformed the landscape of local legislative politics. Mamdani, famous for his socialist politics and his revolutionary campaign style, has drawn attention from the global media.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">After winning New York city mayoral elections, Zohran Mamdani (<a href="https://twitter.com/ZohranKMamdani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ZohranKMamdani</a>), quotes former Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru in his victory speech. &quot;Standing before you, I think of the words of Jawaharlal Nehru. A moment comes but rarely in history when we step out… <a href="https://t.co/3MmfPefThy">pic.twitter.com/3MmfPefThy</a>&mdash; Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) <a href="https://twitter.com/zoo_bear/status/1985941464581619969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Zohran Mamdani's background and career</h2>Zohran Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda. He is the only child of the postcolonialist author Mahmood Mamdani and the award-winning Filmmaker Mira Nair. His father was a Gujarati Muslim who immigrated to Uganda. Mamdani has both paternal and maternal diasporic links to India. He studied partly in Cape Town and then moved to America. He described himself as ‘privileged’ and said that his reality was not the reality of New York City. "I never had to want for something, and yet I knew that was not in any way the reality for most New Yorkers."He studied at the Bronx High School of Science, where he ran unsuccessfully for Vice President. &nbsp;There, he co-founded the school's chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine. He also played soccer for the West Side team. He was fond of Hip Hop music and collaborated with Ugandan rapper HAB under the nickname Young Cardamom. &nbsp;He graduated in 2014 on African Studies. Before running for office, he was a housing counsellor. He said that he helped immigrants in Queens with eviction notices to help them keep their homes, an experience which motivated him to run for the office.&nbsp;In 2015, he joined the New York political scene with the Democratic Socialist Party of America and campaigned for several other leaders like Khader El-Yateem and Tiffany Cabán. In 2020, he won the New York 36th State Assembly district, which encompasses Astoria and Long Island City in Queens. He ran on the issues of housing reform, prison reform and public ownership of utilities. He was re-elected without any opposition in 2022 and 2024. On October 23, 2024, he announced his Mayoral candidacy. He started campaigning with a call for free city buses and a rent freeze in rent-stabilised housing, increasing affordable housing units, establishing government-run grocery stores, and increasing taxes on the rich whose net earnings are more than $1 million.&nbsp;

<h2>Net worth of Zohran Mamdani&nbsp;</h2>According to Forbes, Mamdani has a net valuation of $200,000, which is significantly lower than $10 million of his opponent, Andrew Cuomo. &nbsp;His major property disclosure as a New York City assemblyman was the land in Uganda, which he acquired in 2012. The 4-acre land in Jinja, an area on the banks of Lake Victoria, near the source of the Nile River, is valued between $150,000-$250,000. He lives in a rent-controlled apartment in Astoria worth $2,500. Andrew Cuomo mocked him, calling it a "poor" man's apartment. As a New York City assemblyman, he had a salary of $142,000 per year. Now, as New York Mayor, he will earn a salary of $258,750 a year and will have the option to live rent-free in Gracie Mansion. He doesn't own a car and mostly travels by the Subway. He is married to a Syrian-born American Illustrator, animator and artist Rama Duwaji. Their joint assets have not been disclosed yet.His father, Mahmood Mamdani, works at Columbia University as a senior professor with a yearly salary of roughly $200,000-$300,000, a year. His mother, Mira Nair, is a renowned filmmaker and made films like Salaam Bombay!, Mississippi Masala, and Monsoon Wedding. She owns a $2 million house in New York City. &nbsp;Conservative mouthpiece, New York Post, and conservative commentator Laura Loomer and Meghan McCain claim that Mamdani's parents have a valuation of $2million-$10 million, and he is too privileged to talk about Socialism.&nbsp;

Explore Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and political rise as New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. Learn about his family and career.

New York City has elected the Muslim and South Asian origin Zohran Mamdani as the new mayor. Born in the family of a Ugandan scholar, Mahmood Mamdani and Indian filmmaker Mira Nair, Mamdani has comprehensively defeated Cuomo after months of debate and campaigning. Once, a small-time rapper has transformed the landscape of local legislative politics. Mamdani, famous for his socialist politics and his revolutionary campaign style, has drawn attention from the global media.

Explore Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and political rise as New York City’s first Muslim and South Asian mayor. Learn about his family and career.

Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and rise as New York City’s Mayor

Several empires and kingdoms throughout history have always shaped the world through cultural exchange, conquest, and innovation. In this article, we will explore the 5 largest empires by land area, focusing on their peak sizes, time periods, and control over multiple regions.

The 5 largest empires in world history — Ranked by land area

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news

world news

We have special relationship with India, grateful for the economic support: Sajith Premadasa

Russia to restart nuclear testing? Putin says if Trump...

'Gurudwaras only for Sikhs'? Indian Hindu pilgrims denied entry to Nankana Sahib

Ukraine to replace kopeck coins with ‘shah’ in another bid to break from Russia

Zohran Mamdani: Did you know these things about New York's new mayor

US shutdown a BIG FACTOR in Democrats' win: Trump on Zohran Mamdani's victory

France burial lottery: Win a chance to be buried near famous people

Indian-origin Cincinnati Mayor wins second term, crushes JD Vance’s half-brother

‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy on Mamdani’s win

SHOCKING! Man gropes, tries to kiss Mexico’s President during public event—VIDEO

Zohran Mamdani, Rama Duwaji's love story might restore your faith in dating apps

How Mamdani used Bollywood, South Asian language and culture to win NYC race

Zohran Mamdani is going to face a big problem in New York as mayor

Top 7 coal producing countries powering the world’s energy needs

Car rams pedestrians in France, injures 10; driver, 35, detained

VIDEO | Chilling visuals emerge after Typhoon Kalmaegi devastates Philippines

When Zohran Mamdani landed into controversy for old social media posts

India's BrahMos gains traction: Why Indonesia is buying the Supersonic Missile

‘Move back to India’: Racist attack on Indian man in Canada sparks debate online

Controversial Zakir Naik banned from Bangladesh till elections. Here's why

Zohran Mamdani sends four-word message to Trump: 'I know you’re watching'

Mamdani is NYC mayor, but is he the next Obama? Hold your horses

Why some hate Zohran Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of NYC, the 9/11 epicentre

How a 14-year-old Zohran Mamdani helped mother Mira Nair in her career

Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and rise as New York City’s Mayor

The 5 largest empires in world history — Ranked by land area

world news

We have special relationship with India, grateful for the economic support: Sajith Premadasa

Russia to restart nuclear testing? Putin says if Trump...

'Gurudwaras only for Sikhs'? Indian Hindu pilgrims denied entry to Nankana Sahib

Ukraine to replace kopeck coins with ‘shah’ in another bid to break from Russia

Zohran Mamdani: Did you know these things about New York's new mayor

US shutdown a BIG FACTOR in Democrats' win: Trump on Zohran Mamdani's victory

France burial lottery: Win a chance to be buried near famous people

Indian-origin Cincinnati Mayor wins second term, crushes JD Vance’s half-brother

‘We got our a**es handed to us’: Vivek Ramaswamy on Mamdani’s win

SHOCKING! Man gropes, tries to kiss Mexico’s President during public event—VIDEO

Zohran Mamdani, Rama Duwaji's love story might restore your faith in dating apps

How Mamdani used Bollywood, South Asian language and culture to win NYC race

Zohran Mamdani is going to face a big problem in New York as mayor

Top 7 coal producing countries powering the world’s energy needs

Car rams pedestrians in France, injures 10; driver, 35, detained

VIDEO | Chilling visuals emerge after Typhoon Kalmaegi devastates Philippines

When Zohran Mamdani landed into controversy for old social media posts

India's BrahMos gains traction: Why Indonesia is buying the Supersonic Missile

‘Move back to India’: Racist attack on Indian man in Canada sparks debate online

Controversial Zakir Naik banned from Bangladesh till elections. Here's why

Zohran Mamdani sends four-word message to Trump: 'I know you’re watching'

Mamdani is NYC mayor, but is he the next Obama? Hold your horses

Why some hate Zohran Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of NYC, the 9/11 epicentre

How a 14-year-old Zohran Mamdani helped mother Mira Nair in her career

Zohran Mamdani’s net worth, background, and rise as New York City’s Mayor

The 5 largest empires in world history — Ranked by land area

Why some hate Zohran Mamdani, the first Muslim mayor of NYC, the 9/11 epicentre