New York City, NY, USA: A group of Hindu supporters of New York City’s Democratic mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani, came together for a prayer gathering on November 1 at Tompkins Square Park to show their solidarity and blessings for his campaign.

The event, hosted by Hindus for Zohran, an affinity group backing Mamdani’s candidacy, was also attended by his mother, Mira Nair, the acclaimed Indian-American filmmaker known for movies such as Mississippi Masala, Monsoon Wedding, and The Namesake.

“My husband always believed Zohran would one day become a bridge between India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh,” said Nair while addressing attendees. “These prayers remind us that Zohran’s campaign represents all New Yorkers, regardless of religion or background — a city that embraces every colour, culture, and faith,” she added.

Sunita Vishwanath, co-founder of Hindus for Zohran, noted that those attending the event — including community members and religious leaders — were doing so in a personal capacity. “We gather here to pray for Zohran’s protection and strength as he approaches election day,” she said.

Zeshan B., an Indian-American singer who recently went viral for performing a Hindi song in support of Mamdani at Mayor Eric Adams’ official residence, led a musical prayer at the event. “Zohran’s campaign truly brings Hindus, Muslims, South Asians, and all New Yorkers together,” he remarked.

Just last month, more than 60 faith leaders representing Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Jewish, and Jain communities endorsed Mamdani’s mayoral bid.

The prayer meet also came amid criticism from Mamdani’s main rival, independent candidate Andrew Cuomo, who has accused him of offending religious groups, including Hindus.

However, Pandit Sanjay Dube, a Hindu spiritual leader who led a portion of the ceremony, dismissed Cuomo’s remarks, calling them “unfounded and absurd.” He added, “Zohran’s campaign has been one of the most inclusive I’ve ever seen.”