Zohran Mamdani’s video goes viral after quoting Ramiz Raja in campaign speech

A video of New York City’s newly elected mayor, Zohran Mamdani, has gone viral on social media, showing him quoting former Pakistan cricketer and renowned commentator Ramiz Raja during his campaign.

The clip, believed to be from before Mamdani’s election victory, captures the 34-year-old addressing supporters with a touch of humour and cricket-inspired wisdom. “In the words of Ramiz Raja: the ability to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory,” Mamdani said, urging his followers not to grow complacent and to make sure they turned out to vote.

The video has spread rapidly across various social media platforms, with users continuing to share and comment on it. One user wrote, “Bruh, quoting the OG Rameez is good enough for me to believe you’re a cricket fan. God bless Mamdani.” Another commented, “This guy throws out gem quotes like Oprah throws out car keys.” A third added, “He’s a true representation of Pakistan and India! May God protect him and his power to unite people!”

The light-hearted moment has not only amused viewers but also further endeared Mamdani to communities across South Asia and beyond, highlighting his ability to connect with diverse audiences through relatable cultural references.

First Muslim and South Asian mayor of New York City

It’s now official: the biggest city in the US has elected its first Muslim and first South Asian mayor. Since entering the race, Mamdani — a democratic socialist and state assemblyman from Queens — has gone from relative obscurity to becoming one of the most talked-about figures in American politics.

His bold progressive agenda has energised younger voters, challenged traditional party leadership, and drawn both praise and criticism, including from former President Donald Trump and other Republicans.

“Today we have spoken in a clear voice: hope is alive,” Mamdani told supporters after his victory.

Positioning himself as a fresh alternative to establishment politics, Mamdani pledged to bring compassion and clarity to City Hall. “Let City Hall, with our compassion, our conviction and our clarity, be the light that our city and our nation so desperately need,” he said during his election week celebrations.