After securing a historic victory in the New York mayoral race, Zohran Mamdani has captured hearts far beyond the United States including in Pakistan, where social media users can’t help but notice his striking resemblance to local stars.
What began as lighthearted online chatter quickly turned into a wave of admiration and pride, with many celebrating Mamdani’s rise as a story of perseverance and representation.
Pakistani actors Junaid Khan and Arslan Naseer joined in the fun, playfully responding to comparisons.
Junaid joked that he hoped for “VIP treatment” during his next visit to New York, while Arslan humorously confirmed the rumors by saying, “Yeah, guys, it’s true, he is my cousin,” adding, “Congrats, Pakistan, we now have a cousin as NYC mayor.”
Beyond the humor, Mamdani’s journey resonates deeply. Born in Uganda to a family of Indian origin, the 34-year-old leader moved to the U.S. as a child and became a naturalized citizen in 2018.
His rise to one of the most powerful municipal positions in the world reflects the promise of inclusion, diversity, and determination values that transcend borders.
For many, Mamdani’s win is not just a political milestone, but a human story of belonging, representation, and shared pride that connects communities across continents.