Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration ceremony on January 1 concluded with a Punjabi music performance that quickly went viral online. Mamdani, 34, was sworn in as the first Muslim mayor of New York City earlier in the day.
Born to an Indian mother and a Ugandan father of Indian origin, Mamdani has frequently highlighted his South Asian roots. During his campaign, he appealed to the desi diaspora, including releasing a Hindi-language video and featuring the song Dhoom Machale during his victory speech.
Punjabi music at the inauguration
The musical lineup at Mamdani’s inauguration featured a range of performances, including welcome music from DJ mOma, Grammy-winning singer Lucy Dacus performing Bread and Roses, and Mandy Patinkin alongside the PS22 Chorus of Staten Island performing Somewhere Over the Rainbow.
The ceremony concluded with a performance by Babbulicious, a Toronto-based Punjabi artist, who performed the song Gaddi Red Challenger. Mamdani was seen dancing to the performance alongside his wife, Rama Duwaji, as hundreds of attendees joined in.
Online reaction and criticism
Footage of the Punjabi performance circulated widely on social media and prompted mixed reactions. While many viewers welcomed the cultural expression, others objected to Punjabi music being played at the inauguration of New York City’s mayor.
Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration in New York City has music that’s not even in English and Muslim men on stage that look like they’re in Afghanistan
Buckle up America. This is the Islamic takeover of Americapic.twitter.com/M8IOQqcoHK
— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) January 1, 2026
One post on X criticized the event, suggesting it signaled cultural change in the city. Another post by Republican Josh Barnett predicted a potential backlash.
Clarifications amid backlash
Several social media users pushed back against the criticism, noting that the singer is Sikh, not Muslim, and that the performance was in Punjabi.
“I oppose Mamdani.” one comment read. Another added that the criticism appeared driven by misinformation rather than facts.
Cultural symbolism highlighted
Supporters said the performance reflected Mamdani’s multicultural background and the diversity of New York City. The Punjabi performance was the latest in a series of symbolic nods to his South Asian heritage during his political rise.
