Zohran Mamdani’s Diwali Video Resurfaces, Netizens Notice ‘Kalawa’-Like Thread On Wrist As He Grabs ‘Mithai’

Democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani scripted history by winning the 2025 Mayoral election in New York City. With this extraordinary feat, he has become the first Indian-American and the youngest mayor

of NYC. From playing the popular Bollywood track Dhoom Machale post his victory speech to giving a nod to Jawaharlal Nehru’s iconic dialogue, the 34-year-old never shies away from displaying his Indian roots.

Amid his post-election buzz, an old video of Zohran Mamdani’s Diwali celebrations this year has grabbed the internet’s attention. Reason? His true-blue style of observing the Hindu festival. The clip was posted by businesswoman and activist Komal Nambiar on October 21.

Zohran Mamdani Wears ‘Kalawa’

The video captured Zohran Mamdani and Komal Nambiar grooving to desi beats. The duo executed a playful dance performance by clapping their hands before the clip transitioned to them holding a piece of sweets each in their hands. They raised a toast to the mithais, showing the sugary treats to the camera before Komal took a scrumptious bite. Zohran, on the other hand, smiled ear-to-ear and displayed a thumbs-up gesture.

But what stole the spotlight was that the newly appointed NYC Mayor was wearing what appeared to be ‘kalawa’. FYI: Kalawa is a sacred red and yellow cotton thread, symbolising blessings and protection, which is used in Hindu rituals. It is wrapped around the wrist during rituals, serving as an emblem of faith, warding off evil, and invoking divine blessings. Zohran’s mother, legendary filmmaker Mira Nair, also made an appearance in the background. “Celebrating Diwali with our future Mayor,” read the text layout.

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A post shared by komal ✼🧿 (@komal_nambiar)

Inside Zohran Mamdani’s Diwali Festivities

On Diwali, Zohran Mamdani visited several temples across New York City.

Last night I visited four temples across Queens to celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights, ending at Maharaja Sweets in Jackson Heights, where we gave out six kinds of delicious treats alongside some very special guests. Happy Diwali, NYC! pic.twitter.com/MKZB6UnrsT

— Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@ZohranKMamdani) October 21, 2025

Sharing the pictures, he wrote, “Last night I visited four temples across Queens to celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights, ending at Maharaja Sweets in Jackson Heights, where we gave out six kinds of delicious treats alongside some very special guests. Happy Diwali, NYC.”

Zohran Mamdani will take over the Mayor’s office on January 1.