Actor-turned-BJP Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut has publicly criticized Zohran Mamdani, the Indian-origin Democratic candidate who recently won the primary race for New York City mayor. In a social media post, Ranaut questioned Mamdani’s Indian identity, suggesting he “sounds more Pakistani than Indian.” She highlighted Mamdani’s parentage, noting that he is the son of acclaimed Indian filmmaker Mira Nair and Ugandan author Mahmood Mamdani of Indian descent, but expressed surprise at what she perceives as his distancing from Hindu identity. Ranaut’s remarks came amid growing political scrutiny of Mamdani’s views and policies, which focus on inclusivity, affordable healthcare, secularism, and raising the minimum wage.

His mother is Mira Nair, one of our best filmmakers, Padmashri , a beloved and celebrated daughter born and raised in great Bharat based in Newyork, she married Mehmood Mamdani ( Gujarati origin) a celebrated author, and obviously son is named Zohran, he sounds more Pakistani… https://t.co/U8nw7kiIyj

— Kangana Ranaut (@KanganaTeam) June 26, 2025

The criticism was echoed by Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who also took to social media to condemn Mamdani’s political stance. Singhvi accused the candidate of adopting an “anti-India” position, stating, “India doesn’t need enemies with ‘allies’ like him shouting fiction from New York.” Both political leaders’ comments follow Mamdani’s unexpected victory over former governor Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary, marking a significant moment in New York politics.

Zohran Mamdani was born in Kampala, Uganda, and moved to New York City at the age of seven. At 33, he represents a progressive agenda centered around social equity and economic reforms, including ensuring access to affordable groceries and healthcare. His election campaign has attracted attention for its focus on inclusivity and secular values. Despite the backlash from some Indian politicians, Mamdani’s victory reflects a growing appetite for change in New York’s political landscape and highlights the complex identities of Indian-origin leaders abroad.