Zohran Mamdani joins Navratri Garba in New York, seeks blessings from priest
In a video shared on Instagram by a user named Trisha, Mamdani was seen dancing Garba with other attendees, dressed for the occasion as he matched the steps to the Garba beats.
Another video, shared by Lelin Kandel, showed him seeking blessings from a temple priest.
The clips captured the mayor joining in the festivities as members of the Indian diaspora came together to celebrate Navratri.
Watch the videos here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Trisha (@trishaeatsny) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lelin Kandel (@lelinnyc)
Mamdani also extended his wishes to Hindus celebrating festivals including Navratri and Durga Puja, describing the period as a time for reflection and renewal.
In a post on X on Tuesday, he acknowledged the different traditions observed by Hindu communities during the festive season, from Garba dancing to rituals honouring Goddess Durga.
"This week, our Hindu neighbours celebrate the Goddess Durga during the festival of Navaratri. Our neighbours will dance Garba, venerate the Goddess Durga with Sindur Khela, receive Tika from elders, set up Golu in their homes, and so much more," he wrote.
He also recognised the different names and customs associated with the celebrations across communities.
"Whether your family calls it Durga Puja, Dashain, Dussehra, or Navratri, may this festival mark a season of reflection and renewal," Mamdani said.
Across New York City, New York state and other parts of the United States, several Hindu organisations have planned events to mark Durga Puja, Navratri and other festivities.- Ends
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