Zohran Mamdani made history on January 1, 2026, when he was inaugurated as the 112th Mayor of New York City, becoming the city's first Muslim, South Asian, and African-born mayor, as well as its youngest in over a century. His inauguration was a multifaceted event, blending significant political milestones with vibrant cultural expressions that garnered widespread attention. Senator Bernie Sanders, a mentor to Mamdani and a fellow democratic socialist, played a prominent role by administering the ceremonial oath during the public ceremony held outside City Hall. This underscored Mamdani's progressive political platform, which includes promises of universal child care, rent freezes, and free bus fares. The inauguration also featured a distinct 'desi touch,' reflecting Mamdani's Indian heritage. The public event concluded with a lively performance by Toronto-based Punjabi artist Babbulicious, who sang his hit song 'Gaddi Red Challenger,' prompting dancing and celebration among the crowd, including Mamdani and his wife, Rama Duwaji. This cultural highlight contributed significantly to the event's virality online. However, the inauguration also sparked controversy when White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Rama Duwaji for wearing borrowed $630 Miista designer boots. Leavitt labeled this as 'Classic Communist' hypocrisy, a claim countered by Duwaji's stylist who clarified that the attire, including the boots, was borrowed or loaned samples. Despite the political jabs, the inauguration was widely covered by international media, including Dawn Images, the original source, and outlets like The Times of India and The Guardian, highlighting its relevance beyond the US borders.