On January 1, 2026, amid freezing temperatures and a light dusting of snow, tens of thousands of New Yorkers gathered in Lower Manhattan to witness history. Zohran Mamdani, the 34-year-old democratic socialist, was sworn in as the city’s 112th mayor—becoming the first Muslim, first South Asian, and youngest mayor in over a century.
The official transfer of power began just after midnight in the ornate, decommissioned City Hall subway station. Mamdani placed his hand on a Quran as New York Attorney General Letitia James administered the oath.
By midday, the steps of City Hall transformed into a stage for hope and progress. Senator Bernie Sanders, a longtime mentor, administered the ceremonial oath. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez delivered opening remarks, declaring it “a new era for New York City.” Confetti fell as cheers echoed through the Canyon of Heroes, where a massive block party spilled onto Broadway.
Mamdani swore on the Quran again during the public ceremony, underscoring his faith and heritage. An imam led a prayer, while speakers emphasized affordability, immigrant rights, and bold government action.
Defying the cold, supporters waved signs, bundled in hand warmers, and celebrated with music and poetry. The event drew luminaries and everyday New Yorkers alike, marking the largest mayoral inauguration crowd in decades. Organizers anticipated up to 40,000 attendees at the accompanying Broadway block party plus another 4,000 ticketed guests at the City Hall steps, with RSVPs matching those projections.
Photos by Rajan Kafle for NepYork
Rajan Kafle
View More PostsRajan Kafle is a Nepali photojournalist now based in New York. He began his career in video journalism during Nepal's 2006 democratic movement. Kafle has worked for various media outlets in Nepal, including Nepal Television and Kantipur Television. He served as the official photographer for the office of the Prime Minister of Nepal from 2019 to 2021. He has been recognized for his contributions to the field with several awards.
