Highlights:
- Zohran Mamdani renewed his criticism of PM Narendra Modi during Diwali celebrations in New York.
- He said “Modi and the BJP have room only for certain kinds of Indians.”
- The mayoral candidate visited several Hindu temples in Queens during Diwali week.
- Mamdani emphasized his belief in India’s pluralism and inclusivity.
- He has earlier compared Modi to Netanyahu and called him a “war criminal.”
Indian-American politician Zohran Mamdani once again criticized Indian prime minister Narendra Modi during Diwali celebrations in New York this week. The Democratic assemblyman and New York City mayoral hopeful attended Diwali events at the Trimurthi Bhavan Mandir in Ozone Park, where he spoke about his vision of an inclusive India.“I have been critical of Modi because I grew up with a vision of an India where everyone belonged,” said Mamdani. He has earlier compared Modi to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and called him a “war criminal.”
He said he believed in an India that is “pluralistic,” where “everyone belonged no matter their religion.” During his temple visit, Mamdani remarked that “Modi and the BJP have room only for certain kinds of Indians,” while also reconnecting with his Hindu heritage during the festival.
“Pluralism is something to be celebrated, something to be strived for,” Mamdani added. He also said that as he runs for New York City mayor, he respects that not everyone shares his opinions about India or Modi. “Eight and a half million people… many of whom may feel differently than me about Mr Modi, and that’s their right and I will look to represent them all the same,” he said.
Mamdani, son of filmmaker Mira Nair, said he feels responsible for ensuring New Yorkers are safe, can afford to live in the city, and are “celebrated.” He also linked this to his experience growing up as part of the Indian diaspora.
Before the upcoming November 4 election, Mamdani visited several Hindu temples in Queens, including the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir and the Sri Maha Vallabha Ganapati Devasthanam (Ganesh Temple) in Flushing. “To be here with you is so special to me because when I meet the members of this mandir, I hear the names of my own family,” he said.
While visiting the Ganesh Temple, he shared, “The stories… and practices of Diwali, Holi, and Raksha Bandhan taught me many of the values I hold so dear today. My mother’s family is Hindu. Even while being Muslim myself, I grew up with a deep understanding of what Hinduism means.”
Earlier this year, Mamdani called Modi a “war criminal” while referencing the 2002 Gujarat riots. When asked if he would share a stage with Modi at an event, he firmly said no and accused the Indian leader of being responsible for the violence against Muslims in Gujarat.
